3.4 Starts Hard.

[sandstoneolds20]

Since I've had my Alero for a year, I've noticed that it starts hard. It cranks a long time until it starts. My friend has one and his just pops right off every time. I leave the key on for a bit and let the pump push the fuel up and then start it but most the time that doesn't even work. So I'm thinking I need to either replace the fuel filter or pump or maybe even both. Tell me what you guys think.

[Vtolds]

turn the key to the on position (just so the power is on) for 5 seconds before you turn it all the way over. It allows your fuel pump to prime and give the motor fuel before you crank it over. A lot of us have had this problem, I even did with my 2.4.

[alerotuner99]

Seems to me your fuel pressure regulator on the fuel rail could have a hole in the diaphram and might me losing pressure after u shut it off. It could also mean your fuel pump is bad and thats why its hard to start in the morning after the fuel pressure leaks down.

[misslindseysue]

Cleaning the throttle plate will help a lot with that problem, too.