2004 Impala, intermittent extended crank time

Recently when I start my 2004 Impala, I sometimes now need to hold the key turned for extended crank for 'obviously longer than normal time' to start it, although it sometimes either immediately stalls or revs up after starting. I'm worried that this is a warning flag to eventual non-start problem.

Coincidentally, 6 years ago I had a similar problem, which was solved (after two trips to the dealership to find the problem) by replacing the fuel pressure regulator which had a leak. I recall in that case that it the problem was worse when the car sat for a while, which isn't necessarily the case now (although hard to remember what happened back then). So right now I'm thinking that's it's not the fuel pressure regulator again.

Any advice?
Jon

Look inside the vacuum hose to the reg. see if there is any trace of gas, check fuel pressure at the port on the rail when cranking, look for about 47 psi.

I wasn't planning on doing any of the mechanic work myself (donno how).
Do you think it's the fuel pressure regulator leaking?

I've also noticed that it starts ok in the morning, and the problem seems to happen more often the hotter it is out. Also if I turn off the car right after driving it, and try to restart it, it restarts ok.

The 2cnd post info are the preliminary steps to diagnose this.

Something is leaking fuel pressure. You need a gauge. The most common place is the regulator. An injector, or the pump itself could be the cause too. Needs diagnosing. Throwing parts is expensive and 9 times out 10 it won't be the first one thrown at it, so money gets wasted in the process.

It was the fuel pressure regulator. Second time replaced it now (2004 Impala, replaced it in 2007 and now 2013), noticed that it went up like $50 in cost since 2007 too.

jallen8,

I am glad to see you were able to have your concern resolved. If you have any concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to us via private message.

Erica Tiffany
GM Customer Care