Car shuts off when it hasn't been started for awhile and engine makes a rattling sound??

Question

when my car hasn't been driven for awhile it starts but then shuts off and starts right back up and runs rough until it is warmed up, but then even it still a little rough....also, today when i pulled up at my house i heard a rattling sound?? Any ideas?! Thanks!!

Answer 1

How long is a while? The reason behind me asking is if it was more than several months, the gas in the tank is junk. Unfortunately most recent model cars do not have a drain plug in the gas tank should this be the case.

Also another question in regards to the rattling sound. When was the last time the oil has been checked? If its making that noise and the oil level is low, I am sorry to say but you might of put some damage to the engine. In the meantime I would suggest changing the fuel filter, and make sure the oil level is good.  

Answer 2

How long is 'awhile'? Sounds like you've let it sit too long and the fuel is gunky. Try adding a fuel injector cleaner that removes water, and then drive the car until the tank is empty. Then fill with fresh fuel and another bottle of fuel injector cleaner.

Also: when asking car questions, it helps to put specifics in like year, make, model, and engine size.