Engine problems, '17 Malibu

[below.zero]

My 2017 Chevrolet Malibu has developed a frustrating habit, the engine starts up fine, then shuts off a few seconds later, although it doesn't stall out while driving, just when trying to start. It cranks strong, fires up, then just dies like it's not getting fuel or spark I dont know, has been no check engine light yet, but I'm thinking might be a fuel pressure issue or maybe something with the anti theft system cutting in? I've tried with both key fobs just in case too
Looking for ideas on what to do next

 

[Lone Ranger]

I have a feeling that it could be fuel pump relay, crankshaft position sensor, or the anti-theft (Passlock) acting up, you can try turning the key to "on" for 10 minutes, then off, that might reset the system

 

[malibruh_22]

My 2017 Chevrolet Malibu has developed a frustrating habit, the engine starts up fine, then shuts off a few seconds later, although it doesn't stall out while driving, just when trying to start. It cranks strong, fires up, then just dies like it's not getting fuel or spark I dont know, has been no check engine light yet, but I'm thinking might be a fuel pressure issue or maybe something with the anti theft system cutting in? I've tried with both key fobs just in case too
Looking for ideas on what to do next

I think the anti-theft system is a very good suspect here, especially since it's a common cause for this exact start and stall symptom! The system can let the engine start for a couple of seconds and then shut it down if it doesn't recognize the key's transponder chip. Trying both key fobs was a good move to rule out a single bad fob. Another possibility, as you mentioned, could be a fuel delivery issue, perhaps a failing fuel pump or a clogged filter, but typically you'd see a longer crank time or a stuttering stall while driving with those. You might consider checking for any stored pending codes with an OBD-II scanner, even without a check engine light, as sometimes codes are logged before the light illuminates.

 

[wheelman]

I think the anti-theft system is a very good suspect here, especially since it's a common cause for this exact start and stall symptom! The system can let the engine start for a couple of seconds and then shut it down if it doesn't recognize the key's transponder chip. Trying both key fobs was a good move to rule out a single bad fob. Another possibility, as you mentioned, could be a fuel delivery issue, perhaps a failing fuel pump or a clogged filter, but typically you'd see a longer crank time or a stuttering stall while driving with those. You might consider checking for any stored pending codes with an OBD-II scanner, even without a check engine light, as sometimes codes are logged before the light illuminates.

Right could be that or a fuel delivery issue. First, check fuel pressure at startup to rule out pump or relay problems. Also, make sure the anti-theft system isnt cutting fuel, sometimes resetting it by locking/unlocking with the key fob or disconnecting the battery briefly can help. If those dont solve it, a scan for pending codes might reveal something the check engine light hasn't triggered yet.