Q: I have a 98 Blazer (4x4); it will not start unless I smack/hit the gas tank. Already replaced fuel filter.

asked by on August 11, 2016

I have a 98 Blazer (4 wheel Drive) and it will not start unless I hit the gas tank (with my hand). I have replaced the fuel filter. A few people told me it could be the fuel pump but I am just looking for other opinions please. Thank you.

My car has 202500 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Fuel Pump Replacement $145.32 - $1299.70 Get a Quote
Car is not starting Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hey there, thanks for writing in about your 1998 Chevrolet Blazer. It sounds like you may have a problem with the fuel pump. Sometimes when they wear out, they develop a dead spot. By hitting the tank, it jolts the fuel pump and allows it to operate. If you’d like this checked for you, a certified technician, like one from YourMechanic, will be able to determine the exact cause of the starting issue and can replace the fuel pump if necessary.

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

How do I disable the automatic door unlock?
Your car may have an automatic door unlock feature. With this feature, opening the driver’s door from the inside will automatically unlock all of the doors. This will only happen if your vehicle is in PARK (if you have an...
How do you store names and numbers in the HandsFreeLink phonebook?
Your HandsFreeLink® (HFL) system gives you a lot of capabilities, including storing up to 50 different names and numbers in the onboard phonebook. The numbers associated with names can include phone numbers, but also passwords, account numbers and more. To...
Hum/whining noise
Hello. The hum/ whining noise you hear might be your fuel pump. If you turn your key to the run position without starting the car, and you hear the same noise for about five seconds, that could be your fuel...
Vauxhall Astra CDTi 55 plate after driving the car for a while it will stop while i'm driving or not start up again after parking
There are many variables that come into play in a no-start situation, especially an intermittent one. Since you have already had some work done, we can rule those out. Since you are having to drive before the issue happens, I...
My digital fuel mileage read out and is going up and down erratically
Most "fuel economy estimators" utilize the length of time the fuel injectors are open (we're talking milliseconds here) during each revolution of the engine while driving. As a result, small periods of acceleration or other load factors will have temporary...
Should the "VDC" light be on or off? 2012 Nissan Xterra
Hi there - when the "VDC (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/what-does-the-vehicle-dynamic-control-vdc-warning-light-mean)" light is illuminated on your dashboard, that means that Vehicle Dynamic Control is "OFF". It should be "ON" normally, so that it automatically steps in to reduce power when wheel spin is detected...
2012 dodge charger and the service power steering and we cant figure out what's wrong
Hi there. Most of the time when the power steering light is illuminated on the dashboard, it is due to either a fault was found by a sensor or a sensor malfunction. The newer electric power steering systems tend to...
I am 3 hours out of town, can I drive my car home to my mechanic?
Yes, you should not have any problem driving home. The RSC light indicates that there may be an issue with the "roll stability control" which is related to the traction control system in your vehicle. The traction control system (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/traction-control-light-is-on-inspection)...
Acceleration stops around 38 miles
Hi PTG. Thanks for contacting us today. Based on your inquiry, there are a few possible issues going on with your Mazda 3. If the vehicle has issues accelerating after the vehicle has come up to operating temperature, it's possible...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro
The The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro is an exciting car that says a lot about American drivers and what we want. While fuel prices are high and the economy is just barely starting to resurge and stabilize after years of recession,...
Is it Safe to Drive With an EVAP Leak?
While it is safe to drive with an EVAP system leak, it causes excess car pollution. Fixing the problem is often as simple as tightening the gas cap.
How to Get Chevrolet Dealership Certified
Chevrolet car dealerships offer automotive technician jobs to mechanics who are certified through the many training programs available.