I have recently acquired a 1996 Camaro v6 3.8L with an automatic transmission(unfortunately) for a very good price. The problem is that it didn't start. The fuel pump is not getting, but I changed the relay twice with new ones. The pump itself works because not only did I change it, but I bypassed the relay and the pump turns on and works fine. The other problem is that the car will turn on, when I have the relay bypassed, but it always turns off after just a few seconds. I have bypassed the vats and it seems like after the initial start it isn't sending the signal anywhere.


I have googled it and it seems to be very similar if not the same as the problem that this guy had back in 2004 that never got solved from the looks of it.

Much thanks I really want to get it started and on the road.

 

Well similar to the other diagnosis try spraying some carb cleaner in the intake and see if continues to run. That will tell you if the car is still getting spark and its a fuel issue.

Just keep trying to rule out possible problems. Try and clarify your post a little bit too- its a little hard to follow by which relays and what you mean by "on".

 

No other ideas? I am currently trying to change the BCM. I tried starting fluid and it does not keep it on.

 

Have you checked the fuel pressure? Have you scanned it for codes? Two basic first steps in diagnosing a no-start condition.

What is the fuel pump "not getting"?

Does the "car turns on" mean "the engine starts" briefly?

 

The fuel pressure seems good. I tried to scan it for codes, but I kept getting an error communicating with vehicle error.

The fuel pump is not getting power. I have to bypass the relay in order for it to work.

Yes, the engine starts then shuts off after a few seconds.

 

If it is known the OBDII scanner is working correctly, then check the cig lighter fuse to see if it's good.

 

I wanted to come and say that I found the issue. Apparently the old owner had a mouse trapped in there and it chewed through wires right behind the BCM to get out. I reconnected about 10 wires and it started up and stayed up. No wonder all problems were point to the BCM.