I purchased my 1998 C5 new. A couple of years later, I started having problems starting it when it was warm. It takes several cranks to get it going. I can usually smell gas for a minute or so after it finally starts, so it's getting fuel, but probably no spark. The dealer admits there's something wrong, but can't figure it out. I suspect a bad sensor that's keeping it from firing, but I don't know where to start. Any suggestions?

 

Also check the fuel pumps (there are 2). One of mine went out (the secondary) and it led to starts taking 10-20 seconds.

 

i had this problem on my 1997 the fuel rail was not holding pressure.there is a check valve at the back of the tank inline with the fuel line after it was replaced no more problems.
mitch
speednut2@aol.com
oh by the way my dealer was clue less also i found it.

 

top

 

One other thing I'd like to mention, and this is in no way meant to contradict what is posted above, for I believe they are valuable and probably the casue of your issue.

When you start the Vette, with so much electronics in the C5, turn the key to ON and let the gauges 'sweep' up and back. This gives electrical power to the elctronics and allows the fuel system to pressurize. Then turn the key to START. You may find that she starts better and most likely will beat the dreaded column lock. The latter is no guaranty and a CLB should be strongly considered, but there you go.

Hope it works out for you.

Joe

 

Great point!!!

Funny you should mention that Joe. I need to test the theory, but the other day when I got the dreaded "Pull Key..." message, as often happens with my CLB installed, it dawned on me that I hadn't let the voltage stabilize before I tried to crank the engine (seat was moving into position since I'd closed the door). I usually wait until the fuel pump shuts off (in all my vehicles) to facilitate starting like you said. I'm going to try and test my theory over the next month or so.

Now, 1+1 = 3 with the ECL problem?? Anyway, not going to hijack the thread, but you make a very good point!

Macr89501-
As for the delayed start, I've got a hot start problem with my '97. If it sets longer than 10 min., I have to crank it twice for it to start. Doesn't matter if the first crank is a bump or 15 freakin' minutes (actually, it will eventually start after something like 15-20 secs. but there's no reason to crank a starter that long unless Freddy Krueger is after ya). It will typically start the 2nd time.....3rd time for sure. Person I bought it from related same info. I think it has to do with fuel enrichment for hot start....may be too rich. You could have a similar problem. I'm learning HP Tuners software now and I'm planning on playing with those settings some time in the future. Nothing the dealer will be able to fix. Wonder how many other 97s and 98s out there have a similar problem?