So our 2003 350z will not start. The first dozen or so attempts, it would crank and fire up, but then immediately shut off. It felt like computer or a lack of fuel pressure.

Now, it won't fire up. Just cranks over. To me, this indicates that it no longer has fuel in the lines to even start.

When I turn the key to "on", I DO hear the faint buzz of the fuel pump and it runs what I would consider the normal length of time to prime the lines. It is not louder than normal.

The car has run fine for a very long time. The only time I have touched it was to change a burnt out tail lamp. It could be related...but seems a stretch.

Any ideas what I can test or play with before I send it off for a new fuel pump for $500?

Thanks!

Mike

 

Why would you start buying a new fuel pump when you're not sure what the problem is? Have you tried using a code reader to use the diagnostic features of the Z?

 

Sarcasm not helpful.

Usually the code reader points out a finite number of possible things to check and I wanted to ask here for those things if possible before forking over either $80 for a code reader, or $500 (or less) for a mechanic and a tow.

I've now checked the fuse #81 and looks fine, as well as the rest.

Car still turns over and it doesn't smell like gasoline after cranking it for a bit.

 

Update: Got the car to briefly fire up by holding down the gas pedal while starting. It sputtered and would not stay running. During this test I had the compartment open where I could hear the fuel pump and it hums along nicely, so I no longer suspect the fuel pump.

Not sure what to try next without a code reader. Have got along for awhile without one working on Mustangs and Corvettes so if that's what's next, I might have to fork over for one.

 

I don't think DK was being sarcastic...

 

WTF was sarcastic about his post? His questions are completely on-target for what you wrote in your original post.

Get a live scan reader. You need to be able to see what's going on in your engine even if it's not throwing a code. You might want to get your battery and alternator checked as well

You should read the sticky at the top of the Maintenance & Repair forum. There's a fair bit more info you need to include in your post before you're going to get the proper educated guesses you're seeking.

Finally, people who don't want to pay to play shouldn't be working on their own cars. A scan tool is the most basic thing you should own if you're going to attempt to work on a modern vehicle.

 

Get one of these, Autel AL619:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0091D...&robot_redir=1
Works on my Nissan, Mazda, Ford.....does abs and SRS. Has saved me a bunch of coin.

A necessity to work on modern cars.