Slight smell of gas and rough start
 

Ok Since buying the car I have had the problem if it having trouble starting. I hold the key, it turns and sounds like it wants to start, but takes forever. Usually when i finally starts, it dies. Upon re attempting to start it, the car roars to lfie with no problems. My dad suggested to put the gas to the floor once and it will start right up, but I'd rather try to find a solid fix for the problem. So far we have new plugs, wires, and thermostat in the car, so I am not to sure what else could be the problem. I also added techlon to my last fill up to try to clean the fuel system. Also, when the car does start, I get a smell of gas from the exhaust, I don't always smell it, usually only when the car first starts and thats it. If you have any answser that be great.

Check your fuel pressure. Could be a bad pump if it takes a few trys. Have you changed the fuel filter? If not change it. Even if it's not the problem it's good to know that you have changed it recently.

That would probably be a good idea. Its still probably from the factory. HOw would I go about checking the fuel pressure? If i could get a link to a previous post that be great

try cycling the fuel pump a few times before you start it. when you turn the key on the fuel relay will tell the fuel pump to come on for a few seconds and then turn off. now if you start the car it will keep the pump on but here we want to build up pressure. so turn the key on but not to the start position then after the pump stops turn the key off for a few seconds and turn the key on, again wait for a few seconds and turn it off. do that a few times and then try to start the car. if it starts right up you know there is a fuel issue.

I jus ran outsidfe rela quick and took your suggestion. The car did start on first try, hesitated a little, but that could be because its pretty cool outside still. So what would you recommend I look into first? I wanna do the fuel filter anyways, one for mileage, and because by the cars record, its probably never been changed

also, any certain difference in fuel filters? any good brands to look for?

The test you ran shows that the fuel system is not holding pressure when the engine is off. Look for leaky injectors, a bad fuel pump (leaky check valve), or bad pressure regulator. You will need a FI pressure gage.

yep now you need to find out if its the pump or the fuel pressure regulator or leaking injector. i tested my injectors by pulling the rack up while leaving the injectors in, i set some cardboard squares under the injectors and cycled the key, then looked to see if there was fuel on the squares. heres some info on checking the fuel pressure.
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