Quote:
Originally Posted by djshum
you either need to get a scan tool, or have a dealer diagnose it for you. There are many things that can cause a no start. There are most likely codes stored, that an aftermarket scan tool can't/won't retrieve. Along with the codes, pid data needs to be monitored to see what system is actually causing the problem.
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Good advice definitely. However (in this financial mess we are in), everyone should try the basic things before they take a vehicle in.
In the case of a no-start, here are some simple things to troubleshoot (some have been mentioned already):
- Shift lever not in park or neutral.
- Bad fuel - drain the HFCM water separator and inspect fuel.
- Clogged air filter - inspect, and/or replace
- Air in the fuel - most frequently caused by a bad seal on the HFCM cap (or bad o-ring). Replace o-ring, lube w/ oil and re-install carefully.
- No fuel flow (clogged fuel filter, bad HFCM, clogged pump suction line, etc). Change filters, see if HFCM is filling the upper fuel bowl, check fuel pressure if you don't mind a little work to install a gauge, blow air through fuel lines if you think they may be plugged.
- Oil problems (foaming, loss of viscosity: too thick or fuel diluted). Check oil level for fuel dilution, inspect oil condition, maybe even change oil and filter. Definitely make sure you filled w/ the proper oil.
- Bad batteries (coupled w/ bad alternator) or bad starter (needs 500 rpm to start IIRC) - load test each batteries and test alternator
- Bad ground or corroded terminals/wires. Check battery and charging system wires and cables.
- Bad anti-theft system or remote-start system - disconnect system and see if it starts
- Wire chaffing on key components - inspect wires as mentioned in the earlier links
- Bad ICP sensor - disconnect harness and re-try
- Glow plugs or module. You can make a cursory check on this system if you have an inductive (clamp on) amp meter.
- Lastly - An Auto Enginuity code reader is very powerful (but it is somewhat expensive). You can do the injector buzz test w/ it.
If you are lucky, you can find the culprit. If not, take it in. The most expensive thing to do is throw parts at it!
