2000 - starting problems (fuel pump?)

[LSlone777]

I've been having off-and-on problems with my 2000 Avalon. When turning the ignition, it turns over, but it doesn't "catch." Normally, when this happens, after another try or two, the car finally turns on. But last month, it tooks about 15 time for the car to finally start.

Any suggestions on what the problem could be?

If it is the fuel pump, any idea how much that would cost (for the fuel pump and the installation)?

[TrailDust]

I'd check your fuel filter first, then move on to the fuel pump if the filter is okay.

TrailDust

[joebob452]

If it happens after the car has been sitting for more than an hour(or overnight) then it is probably a leaky injector valve. The fuel pressure needs to maintain about 10psi in the rail. Try turning(and leaving) the key in the on position and waiting for a minute or so before trying to start it. If it consistantly starts the first time by doing this then that would be an indication that your fuel pressure was low. Whenever the key is in the on position the fuel pump will be activated and will build up the low fuel pressure.

If it was a clogged fuel pump, it would tend to run poorly during hard accelerations and going up steeper hills. In other words, if it runs fine after it is started then it probably isn't a filter problem.

Joe

[toyo_tech02]

you more than likely have a defective fuel pressure regulator.

[csaxon]

How many miles does it have and when was the last tuneup?