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96 Pontiac Sunfire starting problem


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bauekel
Anonymous Poster
country_kel_7@hotmail.com

Feb 4, 2009, 8:20 PM

Post #1 of 3 (3116 views)
post icon 96 Pontiac Sunfire starting problem Sign In

I have a 96 pontiac sunfire, 2.2 L engine with 110,000 miles. It will start up perfectly fine from a cold state, but doesn't like to start when the engine is warm. This has been going on for about a year and is continually getting worse.

When I try to start the engine while warm, it will turn over normally but it won't fire. When the car does eventually fire, the engine will catch, shudder and chug as if it is not getting enough gas. Then the car will jerk and stall out.

If I press the gas pedal when the engine fires, I can push through the chugging, stuttering stage and the engine will stay running but the idle will be very rough.

If I let the car sit for couple hours after it was warmed up, (so the engine is cool again) it will start up normally.

I have had new plugs and wires installed.
Fuel pump tested o.k.
Fuel Filter replaced.
Crank shaft sensor replaced.
I had the entire fuel system and spark plugs thouroughly cleaned.
No sensor lights are on.

I have invested over $1000 in the car and it still has this problem. Does anyone know what is going on? I would really appreciate any input as I am really not in a situation where I can afford to buy a new car.

Thanks so much!

-Kelly


Double J
Veteran / Moderator
Double J profile image

Feb 5, 2009, 12:59 PM

Post #2 of 3 (3109 views)
Re: 96 Pontiac Sunfire starting problem Sign In

When the concern is present,you'll need to verify if it has spark, fuel pressure ,Injector pulse.

You stated the fuel pump tested ok.....What was the fuel pressure reading?
You stated no sensor lights are on.....
Have you checked for any stored trouble codes?

Reading your post ,a couple things came to mind.....

Fuel pump
Fuel pump relay
Ignition Control module




No Fuel Pressure Test Port exists for this model/engine.
You must install an in-line gauge, as shown above, to get pressure readings.
When the ignition switch is ON (Engine off) and the fuel pump is running, the fuel pressure indicated by the fuel pressure gage should be 284-325 kPa (41-47 psi).

Are you doing the work/diagnosis yourself or have you had it in a shop?

Gets expensive thowing parts at it..
Might try taking it to a different shop for diagnosis.

Just some thoughts...
See what the others offer...


Loren Champlain Sr
Veteran / Moderator
Loren Champlain Sr profile image

Feb 5, 2009, 3:08 PM

Post #3 of 3 (3107 views)
Re: 96 Pontiac Sunfire starting problem Sign In

Sounds like an over-fueling issue, to me. As Jim stated, a fuel pressure test is in order. Be sure to check for pressure bleed off, as in a leaky injector. Or, excessive pressure, as in a fuel pressure regulator. Check to see what temp. the ECM is 'seeing'. Could be as simple as a coolant temp sensor. A cold engine requires much more fuel than a warm one during cold start.
Loren
SW Washington






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