battery is 110% fine.
1st crank starts and dies after 3 seconds
2nd crank starts and dies after 1 second
all cranks after that, constant starter sound, engine wont fire up.
I'm thinking it is the fuel pump, any other suggestions?
99 max with 85k...

 

Sounds like a fuel delivery problem to me all right. Fuel pump is the first thing im thinkin. Then again it could be something simple as a fuel line clog or clogged fuel filter. Its rare but ive seen it happen. Most likely the pump though

 

what is the culprit for a bad fuel pump, just time?

 

dunno, but look at the directions for a fuel pump change in the stickes. I would look at the fuse before changing the pump itself

 

its fuel 90%, its getting spark cause it starts, its getting air, cause if it wasnt something would be seriously screwed up, so its likely fuel

 

is there anyway to test a fuel pump?

 

Take the bottom hose off the fuel filter, crank, if fuel comes out it works, if it doesn't replace it. There should be pressure in the system when you remove the hose, if there isn't , that's another indicator, also double check your fuel pump fuse.

 

Check the ECU for any stored error codes before you start taking things apart.

 

I know exactly what is wrong: you need to go to the dealership and get your keys reprogrammed. While you crank, check if your security light is staying lit, if so I'm right.

 

the security light IS staying lit but what could have thrown my keys out of whack? Would I need to bring both keys and car? If so, then I'd need to tow my car. Is there anyway to fix this myself?

 

i thought if the transponder is bad in the key it would just keep cranking and not start. Also clean your throttle body see if that helps.

 

well, the starter is making noise just will not fire up, similiar to starting a car on an extremely cold morning, TB is fine, and fuel pump is fine as well.

 

The dealership requires you to bring all keys and the actual car to them for the reprogramming, do this ASAP I had this happen to me 2 times, it's a PITA. That's a big reason as to why I sold my car.

 

thanks man, I'm sure this is it.

 

Me too. Oh BTW watch out they might tell you that your ECU is f*cked and charge you $1300 to fix it. Just tell them to reprogram your keys so you can drive it.

 

does anyone know what throws the key program out of correct function so that this does not happen again?

 

do you go through x-ray machines or other security devices at airports or military bases a lot? couple of my usb flash drives got fruxed by those.

 

Yeah, any thing that has a strong magnetic field like when a cashier deactivates a theft device. Also never stick any other key except the factory one into the ignition. Should cost around $85 to get the keys reprogrammed. Something I also learned, be cool with the tow truck guy and he'll be cool with you. Both guys knocked off like 2 miles off my tow.