00 Malibu Starts then shuts off

[E10ff]

I recently purchased a 2000 Malibu that had been sitting for a year since an accident. It had been started and run since the accident, but then the stereo was stolen and the key wouldn't turn any more. I replace the ignition switch, (no easy task when the key won't turn) and hooked up a charger to the battery in start mode. The car starts right up, idles down as normal and shuts off after about 4 seconds. When I turn the key on, I hear the fuel pump run. If I bleed off the pressure at the engine, it won't run again unless the key is turned off and back on. (It pressures the system every time). I also have the theft light at the far left of the dash blinking. I have read several posts about Malibus that won't start due to a theft system issue, but mine starts and runs, then shuts off. If I work the accellerator, it will accellerate, then run out of fuel. I didn't think it could be the fuel pump since it powers up every time I turn the key on. Any thoughts?

Thanks

[odojak]

i don't know

[esch3745]

I'm going to take a dip at this one. I don't know the 2000 Malibu but it's possible GM uses the same system on all its models.

On my 98 Cavalier the startup sequence is as follows - turn ignition on, fuel pump runs and primes fuel rail. Pump switches off. Turn key to crank engine. Engine starts and oil pressure builds up. Contacts on oil pressure switch close and bypasses fuel pump startup relay. Fuel pump runs again as long as there is oil pressure.

In your case I would suspect the oil pressure sensor has faulty contacts.

[slls]

PASSLOCK Reset - I know it will work with out clearing the PassLock DTC
.
30 Minute Procedure

1- Ensure that the battery is fully charged.

2-Use a scan tool in order to clear the PassLock DTCs.

3-Turn the ignition switch from the OFF position to the CRANK position, and then to the RUN position.

4-The vehicle will start and then stall.

5-Leave the ignition ON until the security telltale turns OFF in 10 minutes.

Repeat steps 3-5 for 2 more times [3 times total]

Clear all Passlock DTCs.

[E10ff]

I've been told of the procedure of waiting the 10 min. and then re-cycling the key. I was told to try that by a locksmith as well so the car learns the new key. I tried it today, but the battery was low, so the car was on a charger. I installed a new battery, but ran out of time. I'll try the cycle again tomorrow. I'll also check the oil pressure contacts, that sounds like a possibility. I've been told several times it's the fuel pump, but I tend to believe it is something turning the pump off as the pump primes the system each time and then shuts off. It just will not re-prime it if I release the pressure.

[esch3745]

The Power Control Module closes the fuel pump relay for about 4 seconds and then switches the relay off. The fuel rail is now primed so the engine can start. Once the engine is running, contacts on the oil pressure switch feed power to the fuel pump. The running of the pump is not dependant on fuel pressure so it will not run again if pressure is released.

The only way to get the pump to start up once more, is to switch the ignition off and then on again. As a matter of interest, looking at the wiring diagram for my 1998 Cavalier, it seems that the fuel pump relay can be removed once the engine is running and the pump will continue to run. The oil pressure switch contacts are now feeding power to the pump.

As you can see, this is a safety interlock to prevent the engine running with no oil or low oil pressure. My 04 Malibu seems to have the same system.

[E10ff]

Sorry I forgot to get back here and tell you all how it ended. I took it to the dealer (towed) as I was sure it was a theft lock issue. They found that when I put in the new ignition cylinder, I must have bent one of the micro pin connectors to the side. Don't ask me how as the cylinder slides straight in only. They then were able to disable the theft lock, or reprogram it or whatever, but now it runs. Thanks again fellas, this site is great!!