Q: car only runs for a second or two when i try to start it...

asked by on December 30, 2016

when i start to turn key i can hear fuel pump come on...but when i start the car it only runs for a second or two like its only getting whats in the line...ive heard this might be an ignition switch problem...i really dont think its the fuel pump...

My car has 280000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Suspension up front makes a ton of noise, creaks
The front suspension has many moving parts which could cause the noise you describe. The most likely cause is the sway bar links binding. They can be inspected by turning the suspension steering and bouncing the car up and down,...
How do I reset the air bags?
If you have been in an accident that deployed the air bags, then you’ll need to replaced and the system checked for integrity. Resetting the air bags loads them back into place, and resets the system, so that they’ll function...
How do I adjust the four-way power driver seat?
The four-way power driver seat is very easy to adjust: 1. Manually move the seat forward or backward by lifting on the seat adjustment handle at the front of the seat, moving the seat forwards or backwards, and releasing the...
Headlight indicator light not displaying
The noise may be from the fan, or the AC compressor. The battery going dead would need to be checked for a draw, or short to the battery; the cables would also need to be checked. The headlight high beam...
Stuck in 4 wheel low
This is not a common problem and your vehicle may have a bad control motor that shifts the transfer case in and out of 4WD (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-all-wheel-drive-works). You will need to have the system scanned to see if there are codes...
Misfiring and jerking when accelerating.
The jerking reaction you are experiencing may be related to a dirty or failing mass air flow sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/mass-airflow-sensor-replacement). This is a component that measures the air intake as it enters the intake of the engine reading and relaying this...
Do you need shorter struts if you lower a car with a live axle?
On some vehicles with live axles you will need to have shorter struts. It is best to not try and piece the lowering parts and to get a complete kit that is designed for your vehicle. This way alignment is...
My clock won't work on my 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse
Hi There, Depending on the source of the clock's power, this may be related a faulty electrical connection to the clock. This may also be related to a short, a faulty gauge cluster or a faulty instrument cluster voltage regulator...
Coolant leaks while car is off, not overheating, new radiator!
I would recommend having your vehicle's cooling system pressure tested by a qualified professional to determine the exact source of the coolant leak. This test will put your cooling system Under Pressure without the engine running to avoid the sound...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy for Occasional Drivers
Not Not everyone relies on their car on a daily basis. Maybe you aren’t the type that deals with a daily commute, and running from here to there constantly. If that’s the case, you may be looking for a car...
Understanding the Pontiac Oil-Life Monitor and Service Indicator Lights
Car symbols, or dashboard lights, are a car service reminder. The Pontiac Oil Life Monitor (OLM) indicates when and what service your car needs.
How to Buy a Classic Pontiac
Whether you want to buy a classic Pontiac for yourself or as a gift, here are some tips on buying one for a great value.