I just bought a 97bonniville and i think i need a new fuel pump

Asked by Erica May 10, 2016 at 04:37 PM about the 1997 Pontiac Bonneville 4 Dr SE Sedan

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

My car wont start

1 Answer

340

Is it cranking but not starting or does nothing happen when you turn the key? Also, is there a security light on? Could be a clogged fuel filter, or a bad fuel pump relay (in your fuse panel). But here are 2 easy ways to test the fuel pump yourself if you think that's the issue. 1) Turn off all radio and ac and turn the key to ON but don't try to start...do you hear a slight hum sound from the rear that lasts for maybe 2 seconds? If so, your fuel pump is working. 2) If you can't hear the hum, there is a fuel pressure release valve under the hood that looks like a tire's air valve...probably has a green or black cap and is located under the plastic engine cover. Get a lot of paper towels around it and press the valve with a screwdriver tip to release all the fuel pressure (gas will spray so keep the towels over it best you can, just press until it stops spraying). After that, turn the key to on but don't start...then off. Do this 3 times, then check the same valve to see if fuel sprays out again. If so, fuel pump is fine...if no fuel sprays after that, it's either a bad pump or relay. Relay is easy to replace...fuel pump not so much. Hope this helps.

2 people found this helpful.

Your Answer:

Own this car?

Share your experience with others.

1997 Pontiac Bonneville

Review another car

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    james sparrow
    Reputation
    570
  • #2
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    540
  • #3
    John Saffrahn
    Reputation
    510
View All

Know more, shop wisely

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Pontiac Grand Prix
6 Great Deals out of 194 listings starting at $1,288
Used Chevrolet Impala
269 Great Deals out of 4,033 listings starting at $500
Used Buick LeSabre
5 Great Deals out of 195 listings starting at $1,895
Used Chevrolet Camaro
608 Great Deals out of 9,224 listings starting at $4,899
Used Pontiac Firebird
10 Great Deals out of 374 listings starting at $5,950
Used Buick Park Avenue
45 listings starting at $4,488
Used Dodge RAM 1500
78 Great Deals out of 1,592 listings starting at $995

Used Cars for Sale

2005 Pontiac Bonneville For Sale
8 listings starting at $3,995
2004 Pontiac Bonneville For Sale
11 listings starting at $2,895
2002 Pontiac Bonneville For Sale
5 listings starting at $5,095

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.