Car will not start

Tiny
CHRIS GORDON
  • MEMBER
  • 1991 BUICK REGAL
  • 3.1L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 130,000 MILES
Changed fuel filter and pump injectors and put a new starter in. It won't crank or start, but a week ago was running fine the vehicle is the Limited model. I need some ideas please.
Tuesday, January 8th, 2019 AT 5:54 PM

6 Replies

Tiny
HARRY P
  • MECHANIC
  • 2,292 POSTS
Does the key have a chip in it? If so, then look at the security system as the possible cause. I'd start with attempting the "relearn" procedure. With this procedure, the car's control module will learn to accept the key's resistance/code and start the car. It's a tedious process, but it's the best (freest) place to start. If it doesn't take the first time through, try it once or twice more before moving on. --> https://sep.yimg.com/ty/cdn/yhst-21854666697846/gm-install-and-key-relearn-instructions-final.pdf

If that doesn't work, the next thing to do would be to take the key to the dealership and have them check it. It should be free to have them check it, but might be a few bucks. Well worth it. If it's bad, then get a new key cut and coded right there. Go home, and do the relearn procedure for the new key.

Start there and let me know what happens. We'll go from there if necessary.
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Tuesday, January 8th, 2019 AT 8:17 PM
Tiny
CHRIS GORDON
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Yes it was helpful we put a new starter and battery but still won't crank like the starter is not getting no juice. Can you please help me out some more? Thank you
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Tuesday, January 15th, 2019 AT 11:21 AM
Tiny
HARRY P
  • MECHANIC
  • 2,292 POSTS
Have you checked the key and security system? Does the key have a chip in it like the one pictured below? If so, then you have to check into the security system. If there's a problem there, then the immobilizer in the body control module will keep it from doing anything.
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Tuesday, January 15th, 2019 AT 2:55 PM
Tiny
CHRIS GORDON
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
The key does not have a chip in it and the car does not have any kind of anti-theft on it. Plus we changed the wires from the battery and still the starter isn't getting any juice. Thanks for the help.
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Tuesday, January 15th, 2019 AT 3:13 PM
Tiny
HARRY P
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Okay. So since there's no security system, diagnosis ought to be simple enough. The next thing I'd do is take my multi-meter, connect the red (positive) lead to the starter wire, and connect the black (negative) test lead to the battery or a good grounding spot. Then have a helper turn the key while you observe the meter. One of the wires ought to be energized if the relays and such are good. If you get 12 volts, then the problem is the starter. If you don't, then we need to look a little more.

Also, check this guide out - it has some pretty good idea in it - https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair - I'm a fan of the simple test that they have the for the neutral safety switch. It's easy and free to check, and this is a common problem somewhat.

Start with the neutral safety switch test and then go through the other suggestions and let me know what you find. Good luck and let us know what you find. We'll go from there.
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Tuesday, January 15th, 2019 AT 9:12 PM
Tiny
HARRY P
  • MECHANIC
  • 2,292 POSTS
Also, here's the layout of the passenger side under the hood fuse box. Check #17. It'd be nice if it were that simple.
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Tuesday, January 15th, 2019 AT 9:14 PM

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