2001 Chevy Astro Cold Starting

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2001 CHEVROLET ASTRO

Engine problem
2001 Chevy Astro 6 cyl All Wheel Drive Automatic 165000 kilometers

During cold weather my vehicle will not start unless I have the block heater plugged in. These are the things that have been done to try and rectify the problem. First, I use gasoline antifreeze when filling up. Replaced the distributor cap and associated parts. Changed the battery to ensure strong cranking. Most recently changed the temperature sensor. When the vehicle is plugged in during the night it will start without hesitation. Is there anything else that may be causing this problem? Thank you.

4 Replies

BLACKOP555

MECHANIC
10,371 POSTS

When you say you replaced the temperature sensor.

Do you mean intake air temp sensor, or coolant temp sensor.

Also are you sure you replaced the coolant temp sensor not the sending unit?

Unhook the thing you replaced, and start the car if it shows full hot or all the way cold with a warm engine then you replaced the send unit not the sensor.

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Friday, February 8th, 2008 AT 8:06 PM

TECHMAN1

MEMBER
82 POSTS

I've had 4 Astro's. It is going to be your ignition wire between the ignition coil and the distributor. If this wire is gently leaning against an engine crossmember, look closely at that spot for microscopic "punch through" voltage holes. Do NOT buy cheap ignition parts for an Astro. Forget Duralast and other cheap makes. Buy the more expensive Sorensen and Autolight brand names. And only Autolight Double Platinum plugs.

I wrap my coil wire with 3/8ths inch spiral band and then cover that with half inch plastic split loom.

On my 4th Astro, I drive it 1,000 miles a week and have now 208,000 miles on it.

I have seen dozens of people with Astro problems that thought they had injector problems, sensor problems, computer problems, and just a good ignition system rebuild fixed them all.

Good Luck

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Saturday, February 9th, 2008 AT 12:16 AM

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