2006 Chevy Cobalt, Problems Starting

by David
(Tucson, AZ USA)

When my 2006 cobalt lt 2.2 liter sits for over a few hrs it will not start on the first try but it has always started the second try. This problem just started a few days ago, I can tell that the ignition is working fine but it sounds like it isn't getting gas or something. I just replaced the fuel filter last night to see if that was the cause but then again this morning it took two times to try and start. Does anyone have any idea what this could be? I think it is a problem with something in the fuel system but am not sure what it is, please help!

Thanks,

David G.

Steve Says,

Hi, David. Thanks for asking me your question. The first thing you need to do is find out whether this is a spark problem or a fuel problem. In order to do this you will need a duel pressure tester and a spark tester. Test the fuel pressure when it won't start and test the spark when it won't start. If the fuel pressure is low then you are looking at a fuel pump, or regulator problem most likely. If there is no spark when it won't start then you are most likely looking at a problem with things like the ignition control module, coils, ignition switch, etc.

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