2000 Chrysler Cirrus Fuel System?

2000 CHRYSLER CIRRUS
150,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
RGSPOOK
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
For some reason my car takes about 3 (10-second) turns of the key to start and even then when it starts...the car vibrates and shakes (in the engine area) to turn on.

After this problem occured, I got a tune-up at the request of an Automotive shop. Got the tune-up and the problem still persists.

After researching on the problem, I thought it could be the fuel pump fuse, fuel pump or fuel injector.

I asked a mechanic and he said maybe the spark plugs are lose...done.

I also added some Valvoline fuel injector cleaner...done....

Again, the only problem with my car is when I need to start it. Once I start it, it handles like a dream...no problems, only that the fuel gauge jumps up and down and the empty light flickers (this happens even when I have a full tank.

Any suggestions?
Jul 16, 2009 at 4:14 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 34,306 POSTS
Description is confusing.

"For some reason my car takes about 3 (10-second) turns of the key to start and even then when it starts...the car vibrates and shakes (in the engine area) to turn on."

"Again, the only problem with my car is when I need to start it. Once I start it, it handles like a dream...no problems,"

If you hear one loud clunk from the starter when you turn the ignition switch to "crank" but the starter does not spin, suspect worn solenoid contacts. They can be replaced for 20 bucks, but most people just replace the entire starter motor. This problem always starts out being intermittent and gets progressively worse over a few months.

There is a cheap fix for the fuel gauge problem. It involves removing the sending unit, popping off the float arm, and bending the sliding electrical contact to make better contact with the rheostat. This is much more common on the minivans, but cars use the same design.

You will never solve a running problem on a Chrysler product by replacing the fuel filter. A blown fuse for the pump will result in a no-start condition, never a running problem.

caradiodoc
Aug 3, 2009 at 4:49 PM