Can lumina fuel pump be bad even though you hear it run when key is turned on car only starts with starting fluid then ok for a few days need agin?

Yes, a Lumina fuel pump can be bad even if you hear it running when the key is turned on. The sound you hear is the pump *motor* running. The problem isn't necessarily that the motor is broken, but rather that it might not be delivering sufficient fuel pressure.

Here's why your scenario points towards a fuel pump issue (or a closely related one):

* Starts with starting fluid: This strongly suggests a fuel delivery problem. Starting fluid provides a readily combustible mixture, bypassing the need for the fuel pump and injectors to deliver fuel.

* Runs for a few days, then needs starting fluid again: This intermittent behavior is classic for a failing fuel pump. The pump might be working intermittently, building up enough pressure to start sometimes, but failing to provide consistent pressure over time. The pump might be weak, losing its prime, or have a failing internal component.

* You hear the pump run: The pump motor may be running, but the pump *itself* might be worn out, clogged, or unable to create sufficient pressure to feed the injectors properly.

While it *could* be another issue (fuel filter, pressure regulator, injectors, etc.), the combination of the starting fluid success and intermittent starting strongly points towards a weak or failing fuel pump. You should have a mechanic check fuel pressure to confirm the diagnosis.