1999 Chevrolet Tahoe Logo
Anonymous Posted on Jul 17, 2008

Intermittent Starting Problem

My Chevy Tahoe has a little bit over 80,000 miles and we have had an intermittent starting problem over the past year. Unfortunately, because the problem is not present when we take it to the mechanic, it is difficult to diagnose. Went to L.A. a month ago and the check engine light came on climbing a grade and stayed on. This was the first time and no previous warning. When we got to our destination and stopped the truck and came back to it 2 hours later it wouldn't start at all. Had to have the truck towed from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara!!! My mechanic found that the fuel pump went out and replaced it. Then, he said the truck started up right away, but then it died. On further check, the alternator went out also. This too was replaced. Truck ran great leaving my mechanic; however, next day the check engine light came on and took it back and apparently, one of the spark plugs was misfiring. These too replaced. Have had the truck back for about a month and have had three instances where it didn't start again. After leaving it alone for a few hours, it started. Today, it just turns over and starts, but shuts off immediately. I researched a bit and found that the SCPI in this model has been known to be defective and GM will replace it for free. I am waiting to hear back from the local dealership to have this checked out. Would replacing this system take care of the problem or is it completely unrelated? Please advise.
Thanks,
Maria

  • Anonymous Sep 20, 2008

    This problem was corrected once my check engine light actually stayed on long enough to get my truck to the dealership and the problem was pinpointed to the anti-theft device malfunctioning and not properly reading the key, then assuming that the truck was being stolen, the anti-theft device would shut the fuel pump off. Since I had this device replaced, which at the dealership was $555.00 with parts and labor, I have not had any more problems with it what so ever!!!! I even took the truck on a 6 hour drive, praying it wouldn't leave me stranded and it didn't!!! Since, I have driven it out of town many times and have not had one single starting problem again. Hope this helps all of you who are having this similar problem!!! mddoherty200

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  • Posted on Sep 19, 2008
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It is in your ignition switch you have a passlock security on your truck and the dealer has too reprogram it

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  • Posted on Aug 09, 2008
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Im having the same problem as you are it seems like, mine will start then shut right back off and after bout 15 mins it will start back up, if you let it go to long it will tear up your starter then your full filter and pump... thats where i am at now... ive just replaced all those things and its still not starting... if you here from GMC and that is your problem please let me know... my email is [email protected] and my name is Justin... i would be very greatful...

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Replace the sensor that reads the key while starting it is a security feature

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