Starts but then immediately shuts off every time?

Tiny
BEETLEPUNK21
  • MEMBER
  • 2014 BUICK ENCORE
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 149,000 MILES
I just bought this vehicle at an auction, so I know nothing about it.

I tried starting it multiple times. It would start but then immediately shuts off every time.

I noticed that I could give it some gas as I'm starting it, and it would rev up as I'm pumping the gas pedal but would eventually shut off.

I did notice that the radiator was low, so I started filling it, and I noticed that it would just leak out somewhere on the front passenger side of the engine. I could not pinpoint it due to the lack of space.

Is there a sensor on the vehicle that will not allow it to stay running if the radiator is low?

I was not able to find any fault codes relating to it not staying running.
Saturday, February 22nd, 2025 AT 2:44 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 52,404 POSTS
When you are cranking the engine over is the security light flashing? If so, this is the problem. If not let's use starting fluid to see if the car will keep running, it could be a bad fuel pump or it has bad gas/water in the fuel tank.

Please go over this video to help:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXLJbuAZ4CE

Please go over this guide and get back to us.
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Sunday, February 23rd, 2025 AT 10:40 AM
Tiny
BEETLEPUNK21
  • MEMBER
  • 115 POSTS
Hey Ken, I was able to pinpoint the problem. It was a stupid plastic piece (after the MAF sensor going to the intake) that broke. I repaired it, and the car fired right up and idled just fine.

My next issue is the coolant leak. I mentioned that it was low, and as I poured coolant in it it just leaked out of the engine. I will attach some pictures of where it is leaking out. Can you send some information about what you think it might be? And the procedure to repair it. Again, many thanks for your help.
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Sunday, February 23rd, 2025 AT 3:33 PM
Tiny
BEETLEPUNK21
  • MEMBER
  • 115 POSTS
Hey Ken, I pulled off the front clip and I was able to get in there better and find out where the coolant leak is. I have attached a photo. It is this black piece that cracked. What is this piece that I need to replace?
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Sunday, February 23rd, 2025 AT 4:23 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 52,404 POSTS
Good job finding the problem. :) Sorry we only handle one problem per thread can you please start a new one? Please post your new question here, you must be logged in.

https://www.2carpros.com/questions/new

Cheers, Ken
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Monday, February 24th, 2025 AT 10:56 AM

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