QuestionI have a 2000 cadillac catera it wont start unless I put starting fluid.it runs good after I start it with starting fluid ,no check engine light on .my fuel presure its good,i replace a coolant temp sensor and still the same.what it could be.
AnswerHello,
I have offered this warning before-NEVER use starting fluid on a gasoline engine, especially a Cadillac aluminum engine. You can literally blow a cylinder head off! Starting fluid should not be sold like candy at the parts stores and is meant to be used on diesel engines!
You can use a spay bottle with gasoline, but if you want to destroy an aluminum engine quickly and dangerously, use starter fluid.
It sounds like you are losing your prime, which could be consistent with a bad fuel pump or possibly a plugged fuel filter, but I am more apt to think the fuel pump is leaking down. If you are going to do your own work on the car, you should have a factory manual and you may be able to download one for about $30 at http://www.alldata.com if applicable. Otherwise you are left with very expensive guess work.
Good luck!
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