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I have a 2001 Chevy Cavalier with approximately 99,500 miles on it. After running the car for about 15 minutes today, it just died while driving down the road. First it seemed like I lost power, I pressed the gas pedal, the engine reved, but no acceleration. The battery light and oil warning lights came on (no check engin). I pulled over and shut the car off. It would not start. After about 10 minutes, it turned over but stalled again. When depressing the break pedal, it felt almost like it was locked or something. I replaced a fuel pump two years ago, and the scenario was similar with the exception that when it happened then the check engine light came on. Could this be the fuel pump? I need to have a recall fixe (ignition switch). Does this sound like an electrical problem or a fuel pump. I checked for low battery signs, but the lights ect. seem to be working well. Please help asap, I am just wondering what the garage will say is wrong, I know they will find something huge wrong with it. Help!

Optional Information:
2001 Chevrolet Cavalier 4 Cyl.

Already Tried:
Nothing

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $10

From the symptoms you describe, it's more likely a fuel problem. The fuel pump being the most likely failure. An electrical problem will usually instantly turn the engine off. When the pump quits the engine will keep running until the pressure drops.

If you can crank the engine over then the battery is still operational. If you can't and the lights stay bright then it could be an ignition switch problem.

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Reply to RonRepair's Post: When I turn the key, the engine turns over, but immediately shuts off. Do you think that this is due to the fuel problem or the ignition switch?

Does the engine crank then start, then quit when the key returns to the on position? Or does the engine crank then slow down and stop cranking?

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Reply to RonRepair's Post: The car actually starts and turns over (as if you were normally starting it) but as soon as it turns over, it stops (you can hear that it slows quickly then stalls) I tried pressing the gas pedal immediately after it turns, but it does not help. I am assuming that it is a fuel problem. The last time this happened, it tooke 3 break downs for the computer to locate the problem. I only have 1/8 tank of gas in the car, as I was on my way to get fuel. Do you think that my fuel pressure could be low in addition to a non-functioning fuel pump or possibly just Could it be the fuel filter or my fuel injectors? I lost my last fuel pump doe to sheets fuel (gunked up my pump) and have not used it unless of an emergency. I filled the car up last monday because it was the only local gas station. I am wondering since my tank is low if this is the problem. Sorry to drive ya crazy! I just want to be prepared to speak with the garage when they call and kind of know what's going on so they can't take me for way more than the problems worth! I love this service, YOUR GREAT!!!

From what you describe, the fuel pump appears to be operating in the start mode and losing power in the on position. I'm going to check the wiring diagram and that TSB for the ignition switch. If you could check to see if you can hear the fuel pump come on when you turn the key on (it should run for 3 seconds), that would help isolate the problem.

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Reply to RonRepair's Post: The car is at the garage, i'm waiting to hear from them. Thanks for your help =-)

You're welcome. Let me know if you need some more help.

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