starting problems

[mjtr21]

i have a 1999 grand am gt and i was wondering what could be wrong with my car. it doesnt do this every time but once in a while. when i try to start the car it will start and then stall. then other times i will start the car and it kinda hesitates to start and when it does the rpms bounce between 500 and 1500. i think it's some kind of idle problem. im not sure. but today i bought fuel system cleaner and i will try that tomorrow before i fill up the tank. i hope someone can help. thanks in advance.

[xeroinfinity]

It is important to give you engine size, approx mileage etc etc, if you want answers.

ANyway, Could be a couple things, but usually your Idle air control(IAC) is what controls idle.
Thiers a link in the Tips and Maintenance that shows you how to test the IAC(amoung other things).

Has your fuel filter been changed recently ?
Might want to have you fuel pressure checked too !!

Fuel pressure on the 4cyl W/EGR -41-47 psi, W/O Egr-52-58 psi. The v6 should be 41-47psi.

Might also consider getting a professional fuel system cleaning. They do sell a Tool to do this your self, but they run $300-450 at Napa.


These modle GAs also have major troubles with the injectors getting clogged and creating all sorts of issues.

hope that helps!

[crazy Jim]

sounds like a fuel pressure issue on start up

[mjtr21]

it's a GT with the 3.4 engine. i out in fuel cleaner a couple of days ago and it hasnt given me any problems since.