Will not start

Tiny
ABEAVERS
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 SATURN SL2
  • 2.2L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 198,500 MILES
After starting, running and driving run an errand then thirty minutes later it will not restart. This has happened a few times over the last couple months and after waiting ten to fifteen minutes it will start again. Today not starting after several hours now. When running there is not any hesitation, or indication of any problems (check engine light, temperature, etc.) When it does not start, it has no whine or turnover at all. During this time all electrical functions, radio, wipers, lights all okay.
Wednesday, February 14th, 2018 AT 1:58 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JIS001
  • MECHANIC
  • 3,412 POSTS
Even though there is no check engine light on, you should have the computer scanned for pending codes. I do not not recommend doing it with a regular scanner you buy at a parts store. You will need a factory scan tool or an advance scanner that can actually do enhance diagnostics. If you can get the codes and post them we could better assist you.

For now, when the vehicle will not start, check for spark and fuel pressure. If no spark, I have seen coils go bad on Saturn. If no fuel pressure then most likely a faulty fuel pump. If you have spark and fuel then you will need to have the fuel injectors checked for a pulse. If no pulse then you will need to verify there is an rpm signal using an enhance scanner. Here is a guide for a crank no start:

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

Ultimetly if you can get the code, there will be a specific code that may lead to a bad ignition coil module.
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Wednesday, February 14th, 2018 AT 9:57 PM
Tiny
ABEAVERS
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
It still will not start this morning. I cannot drive it to have it scanned. When I turn the key it does not even try to start. Lights and radio still come on.
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Thursday, February 15th, 2018 AT 4:14 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,144 POSTS
Hello,

It sounds like a crankshaft angle sensor has gone out. Can you help to confirm by checking for spark? Here is a guide to help you see how to do it:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

Please let us know what happens.

Cheers, Ken
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Saturday, February 17th, 2018 AT 11:52 AM

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