PU sounds like it wants to start...but doesn't

Ask if the system was checked for leaks. Not just die checked but by actually hooking up gauges and watching. The system could be pulling in air ( and moisture) after being shut down. This is unlikely. But when you eliminate the obvious you have to start looking at the unlikely.

That was a schrader valve you were fooling with, much like a tire valve. Thats where mechanics hook up a gauge to check for fuel pressure.
The fuel pump relay could be going bad and not working sometimes. A mechanic would check the relay to see if it is sending power to the pump. You could swap out the relay with a new one, or jumper it to get the car home if that is the problem.

Check and test fuel injection system and fuel pressure.

Like he said you have a leak in the tire ,rim or valve go to a different shop that doesn't have twelve year olds working there

I would have my old starter rebuilt or sak about a rebuilt one. Sounds to me like your a lady getting took to the bank. I would get a sec. opinion! Ther is many out there that will take you to the cleaners. Good luck

It sounds like the starter solenoid is going bad.

Try unhooking one of the battery cables and leave it off for at least 20 minutes. When you hook it back up the computers should re-boot. That has solved problems for me with heater, interior lites, power windows, AC, day time running lites, power mirrors, fast idle, rough or slow shifting, CD player, and wipers on GM autos and S-10 PU and Dodge trucks. None of the switches are connected to the device they control anymore. The switch tells the computer to open the window and the computer send a signal to the window motor. When the computer gets confused strange things will happen or not happen. Of course you may have to re-set your radio stations.

bring it to a mechanic whos mentally hooked up--probly needs decent tuneup-inspect all wires underhood specially the plug cables with the dist system

it sounds like a loose connection at the battery i would tighten up the connections. I hope that helps you out.