Hi,
I have a 2001 Protege 2.0 and past # of months I've been having these random start issues. Car will crank the turn, but won't actually start.
20-30 min later, it starts fine. It's been happening once a month for past 3-4 months.
YEsterday, it wouldn't start at all. Keeps cranking and cranking. I tried jumping it but it's a no go.
I did notice that the ground wire coming off the battery is REALLY rusty where it attaches to the wheel well. So I'm going to sand it down/ get the rust off and clean it up.
But I'm getting a feeling that won't solve the issue. Seems like I'm not getting fuel delivered?
After doing some research it seems like I should start at the Fuel Relay and then check the fuel pressure? What's the easiest way to do this. I can rent the gauge from Autozone, but just wondering where I should hook it up (easiest spot).
I also found that these cars have some issues with the fuel pump area lines leaking or fuel pumps not working.
I will be checking to see if the fuel pump is working today (turn the key to on position and listen correct?). I will also feel if the relay is clicking (possibly swap it with AC one?)
Just wondering if anyone has any other suggestions or advice.
Thanks in advance!
UPDATE:
Cleaned off Battery Terminals and also metal brushed/sanded the ground connection on top of the wheel well (there was rust build up there).
I also took out Fuel Relay and noticed it 2 prongs had little rust/moisture/build up on it. So I took a toothpick/paper towels and cleaned the prongs and the holes which they go into.
I have the Fuel Pressure Gauge on stand by when and if the issue comes up. So far it's been fine.
PS. I will also need a new battery. Mine is over 6 years old.......
I have a 2001 Protege 2.0 and past # of months I've been having these random start issues. Car will crank the turn, but won't actually start.
20-30 min later, it starts fine. It's been happening once a month for past 3-4 months.
YEsterday, it wouldn't start at all. Keeps cranking and cranking. I tried jumping it but it's a no go.
I did notice that the ground wire coming off the battery is REALLY rusty where it attaches to the wheel well. So I'm going to sand it down/ get the rust off and clean it up.
But I'm getting a feeling that won't solve the issue. Seems like I'm not getting fuel delivered?
After doing some research it seems like I should start at the Fuel Relay and then check the fuel pressure? What's the easiest way to do this. I can rent the gauge from Autozone, but just wondering where I should hook it up (easiest spot).
I also found that these cars have some issues with the fuel pump area lines leaking or fuel pumps not working.
I will be checking to see if the fuel pump is working today (turn the key to on position and listen correct?). I will also feel if the relay is clicking (possibly swap it with AC one?)
Just wondering if anyone has any other suggestions or advice.
Thanks in advance!
UPDATE:
Cleaned off Battery Terminals and also metal brushed/sanded the ground connection on top of the wheel well (there was rust build up there).
I also took out Fuel Relay and noticed it 2 prongs had little rust/moisture/build up on it. So I took a toothpick/paper towels and cleaned the prongs and the holes which they go into.
I have the Fuel Pressure Gauge on stand by when and if the issue comes up. So far it's been fine.
PS. I will also need a new battery. Mine is over 6 years old.......
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