Chevy Cruze Hard Start And Cuts Off

Question:
After I add gas to my car tank, I usually have to turn the ignition 2 - 3 times before it fully cranks. Then, after it cranks, when I place the car into "Drive," it will cut off. What could be wrong with this vehicle? Please advise. Thanks. 2013 Chevrolet Cruze.

Answer:
There are several possibilities for the problem on your Cruze. First have the computer scanned for trouble codes. You can get this done for free at most national parts store chains.

First things first. If you haven't done so in a long time, do a full tune up. Make sure you replace the spark plugs with good quality AC Delco parts and make sure the Gap is correct.

If you are using the same gas station when this problem occurs try going to a different location or even use a different brand of gas. Silly question, but make sure you're not using e85 on a non flex fuel engine. Have a fuel sample taken using a glass jar, let it sit and see if there is any seperation. Contamination or water will settle and you will see a difference bertween the two parts. If this is the case, you will have to have the tank drained and cleaned out.

If this problem only happens after adding gas then it is possible you have debris, water or other contamination in the bottom of the gas tank. When filling you may be disturbing contamination and it is getting caught up in the fuel pump sock and then once the engine is running fuel pressure is enough. Especially since soon after you put it in drive it will stall. It may take some time to get the contamination through the system and allow the engine to run correctly.

You could possibly have a faulty evap emission system purge valve solenoid which is either causing vapor lock or is stuck in the open position causing raw fuel to enter the normally vapor lines of the system casing a very rich condition. This will usually show up with a trouble code stored in the computer but not always. When you remove the gas tank cap before you fill it is there a release of pressure or suction?

Everyone hates to hear this suggestion, but I would take it to the dealer and have them check for any PCM software updates. If you have not been to the dealer in a long time there may be several updates where one of these will correct your problem.

Add a good quality fuel inector cleaner to the tank. Run that through and see if that helps. Restricted injectors will cause a lean condition and cause a long cranking before starting and can cause the engine to cut off. Also have the throttle body bore and plate cleaned. Carbon buildup is normal over time and will effect starting and engine idle.