My kia won't start. Please help!?

[JamesW]

its because its a kia

[AdriB]

I turn the ignition and it comes on, sputters a bit and then dies.
Is it a sensor problem?
Idle sensor?
Fuel pump sensor?

2000 kia sephia
78,000 miles on it or so.
automatic trans.

[Dasindog]

There's generally 2 reasons why a car wont start (when it turns over).

Spark or Fuel

If it's sputtering then dies, could be one or the other.

If you haven't replaced the plugs/wires in a while, be sure to check those as they are usually the easiest to start with (happened on my mustang, new plugs fixed it). One or more plugs may not be firing. Pull them out and look for any visible corrosion or gunky build up. Be sure that the wires are in good condition.

If those check out, be sure there is no leaking in the fuel system, this is usually apparent by a strong fuel smell in the the engine or near the tank.

Also, vacuum leaks can cause this too. One trick is to spray something like WD-40 around the engine while it's running (if it will run that long). If it dies while you spray in a certain spot, there is most likely a leak in a vacuum line.

And last but not least, check the underside of the oil cap. If you see milky oil, you have a blown head gasket which will also make your car sputter like that.

[Dasindog]

There's generally 2 reasons why a car wont start (when it turns over).

Spark or Fuel

If it's sputtering then dies, could be one or the other.

If you haven't replaced the plugs/wires in a while, be sure to check those as they are usually the easiest to start with (happened on my mustang, new plugs fixed it). One or more plugs may not be firing. Pull them out and look for any visible corrosion or gunky build up. Be sure that the wires are in good condition.

If those check out, be sure there is no leaking in the fuel system, this is usually apparent by a strong fuel smell in the the engine or near the tank.

Also, vacuum leaks can cause this too. One trick is to spray something like WD-40 around the engine while it's running (if it will run that long). If it dies while you spray in a certain spot, there is most likely a leak in a vacuum line.

And last but not least, check the underside of the oil cap. If you see milky oil, you have a blown head gasket which will also make your car sputter like that.

[Jeremy]

your problem with your kia, is, well, its a kia. haha no call AAA

[cody]

possible a starter? maybe to cold out for it push it in a garage or somewhere warm and give her a try?

[cody]

possible a starter? maybe to cold out for it push it in a garage or somewhere warm and give her a try?

[billyyellowhorn]

sounds like your fuel pump is going.

[billyyellowhorn]

sounds like your fuel pump is going.