I have been having trouble starting the car for a few months. My mechanic told me last time it was the fuel pump, which made sense. He thought the return valve was busted so I had to crank the pump for a bit to get the fuel to the injectors. Last week my car would not start he told me it was the fuel pump. I paid my $700 bucks. They also charged $200 for additional trouble shooting, they said the engine was flooded and they had to poor some transmission fluid in the valves to clear it up. This is odd, if the fuel pump was bad how could the engine be flooded. Now the bad part is the car starts but still has the same problem.

Now they are saying it may be a bad Fuel Injectors that is creating the hard start, is that reasonable given the issue? I feel like I am getting the run around.

I have included a link to what the car sounds like when I try to start it.

Any ideas?????

 

I can't speculate on the diagnosis but bore wash was a problem for these cars at least for a time. I think that may legitimise the transmission fluid thing.

 

What codes is it giving?

 

Okay so it has been a problem for a few months
and replacing the fuel pump did not help
and in the video it appears that no engine warnings are shown

what is mileage?
has engine ever overheated?
does it only happen when cold (or hot)?
how long does it have to sit before the problem reoccurs?
how does it run once started? rough? smooth after short time?
can you accelerate normally or is that a problem too?

Starting with simplest thing first, did they try replacing the fuel filter?

 

what is mileage? 90k
has engine ever overheated? no, never has
does it only happen when cold (or hot)? If it sits for say more than 5 minutes it happens, the engine can be warm or cold
how long does it have to sit before the problem reoccurs?
how does it run once started? rough? smooth after short time? runs fine after it starts
can you accelerate normally or is that a problem too? it accelerates fine

Thanks!

 

Is this a COLD start issue only or does it affect both COLD and HOT starting?

If it is regardless of engine temperature, I would start investigating fuel delivery - sufficient fuel pressure at the injector rail which can be checked by depressing the schrader valve. Inadequate pressure shouldn't be the new pump but could be restricted fuel filter or fuel pipe.

If it is only a COLD start issue then low cylinder compression could be a cause. However, if it is nothing mechanical, the ECT (Engine Coolant Temperature) sensor is a suspect.

Graham

 

I took a long time after reading your first post to finish and post my reply in #6 by which time you had already answered the COLD or HOT question!

Therefore check compressions and suspect ECT sensor.

Graham

 

If you still have this problem, check the battery ground at the chassis (trunk/body) side as well as the negative post.

 

I have tested everything and it is all fine. I really think the place I went to did not replace my fuel pump but said they did. Is there a way to test if my issue is the fuel pump. From my understanding, if the fuel pump has a broken valve and the fuel is receding back into the tank that would create my issue. How can I prove to myself that it is or is not the fuel pump.

The fact that lead me to believe this:
1. happens hot or cold
2. does not happen if the engine is only shut off for a minute (possible that the gas has not receded yet)
3. They did a smoke test (at least they say they did) and no air leaks

I just don't know what else would create my issue with the above facts......

 

Just install a fuel pressure gauge on the fuel rail and watch the pressure??
If the pressure drops fast, the rail could develop a 'vapor-lock'.

Pressure drop could be a faulty fuel pump check valve, pressure regulator or 'dribbly' injector(s).

Also check the vacuum line to the FPR to see if the diaphragm leaks fuel.

bob

 

thanks, i will give it a try

 

Not sure exactly where you live, but Enzo's is in Marietta near the air base and they have a good reputation, Jag experts for many years.

Enzo's Automotive Service – Atlanta Jaguar, Land Rover, Ferrari, & Maserati Repair and Service

 

Uhm, wonder which valves the mechanic is referring, and I hope that they drained some of engine oil prior to adding the trans fluid. So, what color is the oil now?
Also, I used sea foam by pouring it directly into my evaporator line and I drove it few miles, then the next day I added some to a full tank of gas and wallah!, so as long as you know that your 0xygen/fuel mixture needs a touch-up and injectors and combustion chambers need gargling.
If the battery check, cranking/starting amps, charging, pressure and compression checks does or does not reveal anything, try adding sea foam or sea glass to your evaporator line/ or intake and later to a full tank of gas as prescribed by manufactures direction.


https://seafoamsales.com/how-to-add-...-diesel-fuels/

 

 

 

The fuels in the US and probably most of the world have sufficient detergent additives to keep the injectors clean. It can be helpful for a car that has been stored, but it's mostly snake oil.

 

I agree that most fuel additives are a waste of money. But there are a couple of exceptions. Chevron Techron is one of them....

 

 

Let us know Scott. I'm really curious now. Fuel pressure regulator ? Fuel pump ? Injectors ? Bore wash ?