Dear jjb,

May this find you well. Have you checked the RPM/Crank sensor? This device, atop the transmission bell housing at the 10 o'clock position (as you face the engine), reads flywheel/flexplate rotation. The sensor sends a signal to the Ignition Computer, which allows the fuel pump to keep running, after its 1-2 second spin-up (when the ignition key is moved to "on").

The RPM/Crank sensor usually fails, because its wiring harness deteriorates with time/heat. Insulation failure allows the wires to touch, or moisture to get in. As a result, the signal is lost, and the car stops, because the fuel pump shuts down.

Deteriorating insulation can lead to intermittent failure. Eventually, the car won't start at all.

If your car's Crank sensor is the original, it is over-due for replacement. This part should cost under $40. See www.fcpgroton.com, for example.

This is not to say that there is not some other, concurrent problem. However, the symptoms are those of a failing Crank sensor.

Hope this helps.

Yours faithfully,

spook