2001 malibu starting problems

Tried to start my 2001 malibu this am and it turned over but would not start. It was not a passlock problem. I managed to get it started by giving it a little gas, it reved to abound 3000, then started. My wife had the same problem yesterday as well. Funny thing is, it seems the car has to sit for 8 hrs or so for this to happen. I started after it ran a bit and it started ok. Seems to happen when the engine is cold. Any thoughts?

Could be a problem with the fuel pump. May need to get a fuel pressure test to find out. I will say i have heard of this problem alot on chevy and it ends up being the anti theft system. Not only on malibus but trucks and van as well. I have a 97 malibu if i dont crank it up right.. turn key until fully cranked it will set off the system and i have to wait 15 min or more only happen a few times but my wife and my car audio installer had this as well as the muffler guy.. Its a pain sometimes. I would have the fuel pump checked out first though.Make sure the do a fuel pressure check. My dad paid 800 bucks for his chevy van fuel pump and it ended up being the anti theft system.They had to pull his tank.

Thanks for the reply. I'm pretty sure it's not the Theft system, have had that happen a few times already. this is different as it starts but you have to give it some gas first. Think I'll check the fuel pump, anyone else have any ideas as to what may be wrong besides the 2 mentioned?

You mention that it's a 2001 but what is the mileage? My guess is that everything is still original on the vehicle. The first thing I would do is give it a good tune up. This includes a new air and fuel filter.