8 Malibu, 3.1 - sometimes starts hard, other times great

[BoxMN]

98 Malibu, 120k, pretty good condition, had it since new. Put in new alternator about 4 years ago. I think battery is about 5 years old, not sure if I remember though...

Sometimes will start perfect, barely touch key and it starts great, even in -15 weather. Other times, usually when warm or at least previously started that day, it turns over real hard, almost "clunkingly" if that is a word...

Usually what helps is if I just barely tap gas pedal when that happens, then it starts and runs great. Not sure what to check first. No error/msg codes.

Thanks for any thoughts. (will be away for next 3 days so cant check back till then)

[Scott K]

If it turns over slow, only after it has been running I would check the starter, cables for bad connections, have the battery tsted as well.

[98prosport]

SMELL GAS???

It sounds like you might have a leaking fuel pressure regulator. Better have someone check it out. Not something that you should mess with if your not sure.

[thenewguy]

SMELL GAS???

It sounds like you might have a leaking fuel pressure regulator. Better have someone check it out. Not something that you should mess with if your not sure.

+1 Same thoughts here.

[Fishinguy40]

I agree, sounds like the fuel pressure regulator. Car may start fine when cold because the extra fuel isn't a problem with the extra air (cold air is denser).

I don't know if you'll smell the gas though. The pressure regulator probably has a vacuum hose on it. If it's leaking (diaphragm is bad) the extra fuel gats sucked right into your intake. It's easy enough, when the engine is COLD, remove vacuum hose and have someone turn key to the on position but don't start. You should hear the fuel pump start. If gas comes out of the nipple where you removed the vacuum hose you pressure regulator is bad.

[BoxMN]

Thanks guys, will make appt for this week. I don't smell gas, but haven't really looked for it. I think batt is okay and alt is okay, at least when I checked the volt meter I have 12.8 sitting cold, and I think 14-15 when engine on, but can't recall exactly.