I have a 2006 pontiac grand prix with 247 thousand miles. Sometimes when i start it, it starts right up. Other days it starts and then shuts off. My guess is the fuel filter from research, but I don't feel like changing it since it's in the gas tank. When jt doesn't start it HAS to have me put my foot on the gas a little or it won't start. Another thing it does is shake a lot when I start it sometimes. Any suggestions for a fix that doesn't cost much?
Locate the throttle body, remove it if it's not too much of a task and give it a good cleaning with a can of throttle body or carburettor cleaner and a light cloth. It's probably going to be blackened with carbon.
Second is the mass airflow sensor (MAF), usually located along the intake pipe between the air filter box and the intake manifold. Clean that up with a can of MAF sensor cleaner only.
Both of the above are inexpensive first efforts at fixing the issue
I agree with @conal-lane Clean your throttle body, mass air flow sensor, and idle air control valve. If this only happens occasionally then you might need to replace your idle air control valve.
If above dont work, try vacuum leaks. Pontiac (2001 grand prix) having owned one in the past that was turned out to be my issue. Pretty cheap from get a smoke test done.
