Car computer

CARLB403

MEMBER
1989 BUICK CENTURY
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
180,000 MILES

I put a new computer in my 89 buick century. Now the car will not start. Put the old one back in and the car will not start.

Sunday, November 21st, 2010 AT 3:29 PM

6 Replies

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,815 POSTS

What was the reason for replacing the computer?
Have you performed basic testings and what is missing causing the non starting?

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

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Sunday, November 21st, 2010 AT 3:55 PM

WRENCHTECH

MECHANIC
20,757 POSTS

Did you install a NEW ECM from the factory or a used one from somewhere else?

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Sunday, November 21st, 2010 AT 3:56 PM

CARLB403

MEMBER
3 POSTS

The unit was purchased at Advanced Auto. Not new but rebuilt. The car was losing power while driving. With stop and go traffic. And would not start after turning off and then trying to start again. With a jump, it would start. And it would also start after a couple hours of being idle. We took it to a mechanic and he replace the crankshaft sensor but he said that afterward the car did stall once. And that he did not think it was the sensor that he felt the computer should be replaced. So that is what I did this morning. Any suggestions?

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Sunday, November 21st, 2010 AT 4:10 PM

WRENCHTECH

MECHANIC
20,757 POSTS

I don't know how he conclude any of that. If the engine will start with a jump, then you have a battery or charging system issue. I don't see where you get computer from that

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Sunday, November 21st, 2010 AT 4:13 PM

CARLB403

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I checked the alternator for output and the battery is holding a charge. Put in new computer, the engine cranks but does not start. Put old one back in and get the same thing.