QuestionI'm helping a friend, who has a '92 3000GT, automatic, 2WD, no turbo. After having been parked in his garage for a while, it won't stay running. The symptoms are that it starts and runs for about 5 seconds, then quits, and the check engine light is on during this time. It will do this each time you try to start it. Sounds like it's starving for fuel as it quits. I haven't yet gotten a repair manual, but I wonder if it's likely to be the fuel pump? Reading some of your other responses, I noted that some models may have a fuel pump test connection in the engine compartment? Since it can't be driven (!) to a repair shop, I was going to volunteer to put a new fuel pump in, but if that's not the likely cause, it would be an expensive experiment. Thanks for your help!
AnswerAllan,
Your 3000GT should have a fuel pump check connector as well. When you get your repair manual, it'll tell you exactly where it is. Basically, that fuel pump check switch is a direct connection to the fuel pump. You just get a couple alligator clips and hook it directly to the battery. When connected, that will activate your fuel pump. If hear the pump running, that means it's ok. You should remove the gas cap to hear it even better. If it is the fuel pump, that will cost you some money. The pump alone is about $400-$500, and the labor may be another $150-$200 if you had a shop install it. Plus what ever the tow fee is.
If you have an AutoZone in your area, they can hook up a scanner to check your Check Engine Light codes for free. But that's tough to do since you can't even leave the driveway. But check the fuel pump first. If that's your problem, it should be a quick install if there aren't any rusty bolts on the old pump.
If it's definitely not the pump, it may be your car's computer. Read this article for further information:
http://90gsx.com/eclipse/cap/caps.htm
If your ECU has gone bad, the first indications are usually inability to start. Pull the ECU out and check it for damage.
Good luck!
