Hey there, have a 2005 Chevy Suburban 1500 LT 4x2 flex fuel with 202k miles on it.
lately been having issues starting the truck up after doing some work on it. Before it would startup no problem and runs smooth still but now it won’t start on the first crank but will on the second one.
Like I said i did some work on it before the issue started. I removed the intake manifold as well as released fuel pressure before doing so. In order to replace the oil pressure sensor, cam shaft position sensor, and air intake manifold gaskets. Then since I had the manifold off I replaced the ignition coils and wires. Not the spark plugs because those are fairly new still. Also replaced canister purge valve.
after putting it back together I noticed right away the issue when starting it back up. Tried a few times and then drove it for a good while and the issue persisted.
I bought more parts to change however I had a mechanic do the work and take a look into the startup issue. I had the vapor canister, vapor canister vent solenoid, fuel pump, replaced regarding the fuel system. When done the mechanic said it will take a few days of driving for the computer to reset itself to fix the issue completely. Also had the steering wheel position sensor replaced.
so, what do I do? Was the mechanic right? I saw videos that maybe I still need to replace the fuel filter since my old man never changed it once. Also that there can be issue with the PCV valve. Could it be an issue with the throttle body? But other than that I don’t know what else to check.
Well of course James the fuel filter but realize you got 200,000 miles on a flex fuel vehicle I just did an analysis for a customer here in Tennessee and I had to go through $380 items of live data to figure out what was wrong with that stupid flex fuel system. They are extremely complex and known to break down and that kind of mileage so rather than guess, but of course just change the fuel filter that's simple to do, have a guy like me analyze the thing if you near Clarksville Tennessee I'd do it free Monday through Friday I like challenges that I can make videos about
Thanks Scotty, would love the opportunity however I’m in California. However, searched all over for the filter and haven’t found it on either side of the vehicle. I read that models from 05 have it built in the fuel pump which was changed.
Still have the issue so far but after running for sometime it starts straight up. I did have the fuel filling issue fixed.
But I am going to have the mechanic that checked it out take another look at it since he did offer to help if the issue persisted.
If that doesn’t work I guess I can find my over to you have a new video for you to show people and help those with the same issue.
Thanks.
Scotty is right. The flex fuel systems are complete garbage. It will continue to always be a constant headache.
