Shut off while driving it but would start right back?

2007 KIA RIO
120,000 MILES • 1.6L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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ALYSHA PEACOCK
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The car started acting like it was going to shut off then twice it randomly shut off while driving it but would start right back. This last time I was driving; it shut off and will not start back. It's not even acting like it wants to start. All lights work in dash. No check engine light. I replaced the fuel pump and still will not start or even turn over. The vehicle listed above is an Lx model.
Sep 18, 2024 at 4:01 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

What you described sounds ignition related. Here is what I need you to try. Since the fuel pump is new, chances are that isn't the problem, so we need to check for ignition spark.

Here is a link that explains how that is done. If you find there is no spark at the plugs, suspect the crankshaft position sensor has failed. Also, when cranking it, see if the tachometer moves at all and let me know.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

Note: If you are uncomfortable performing that test, see if it starts with starting fluid. If it starts and then stalls, then its fuel related. If there is no change, spark is the likely issue.

Also, let me know if the engine sounds the same while cranking. If possible, record it and upload it for me to hear. I should be able to tell if we lost compression due to a timing related issue.

Let me know.

Joe
Sep 18, 2024 at 8:10 PM
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ALYSHA PEACOCK
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Yes, the tachometer moves a tiny bit. Is there a fuel pump reset button on my vehicle listed above? I read another person had an issue like mine and they reset theirs and it fixed their problem. I really don't feel comfortable doing the wire test. I am so very thankful for you helping me. My mother and I usually do all car repairs to our vehicles, but we only know a little and of course we watch countless YouTube videos as well.

Alysha Peacock
Sep 19, 2024 at 9:08 AM
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ALYSHA PEACOCK
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This is what it will do when trying to start. This is after a new fuel filter installed but was also doing same thing before installation.
Sep 19, 2024 at 9:19 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

It doesn't sound like a compression or timing issue. That leaves spark or fuel. Will it try to start if you use starting fluid?

Let me know.

Joe
Sep 19, 2024 at 6:30 PM
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ALYSHA PEACOCK
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Yes, it started with starting fluid and remained started.
Sep 25, 2024 at 12:51 PM
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ALYSHA PEACOCK
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Test drove it and it stalled and will not start back even using starting fluid to try to start it again.
Sep 25, 2024 at 1:44 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Alysha,

If it still won't start, I need you to check if the spark plugs are getting spark. Here is a link that explains how to check:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

Do this and let me know the results.

Joe
Sep 25, 2024 at 8:11 PM