1997 Chevy Lumina Won't start!

LOVE2CATS

MEMBER
1997 CHEVROLET LUMINA
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
170,000 MILES

I've only had it a month. The check engine light has been on for a week. It has started perfectly every time until yesterday. The engine cranks but wont catch and start. I cant hear a noise from the back when I turn key to on position. I have no money to have it repaired Ill have to do it myself. I am going to need help. What do you think of the online repair manuals? Ill need pictures to identify parts. My son left some tools here when he moved so I hope Ill have enough to do the job. This is a 97 Lumina 3.1 L V6. I am an old woman with just about no experience working on cars, but Im brave and desperate.

Thursday, June 25th, 2009 AT 10:26 PM

1 Reply

JALOPYPAPA

MEMBER
467 POSTS

No sound from the back when you turn the key to on indicates the fuel pump isn't working, which would account for no start. This could require as simple a fix as replacing a blown fuse (marked ECM or fuel pump, in the fuse box under the hood) or -- intermediately -- tracking down broken or shorted wiring to the pump (check with a circuit tester), or -- difficult, messy and potentially dangerous -- replacing a failed pump (drain the gas tank, most likely remove it from the car, open a seal and pull it from the tank -- no smoking, open flames or sparks! If you have tools and desire to DIY, you next need the Chilton or Haynes manual for this car from your local auto parts store. Good luck. I'm a pretty dedicated shade-tree mechanic, but I leave fuel pumps to the pros.

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Sunday, June 28th, 2009 AT 6:49 AM