Crank/no start things to check?

Tiny
RYDER1477
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
  • 2.8L
  • 4 CYL
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 175,000 MILES
My buddys 2004 cavalier would not start this am. I checked the gas cap, spark plugs and then ran OBD scan and the same code came up twice. P0440 Evaporatiuve Emission Control System, P0442 Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (small leak), I really just need to know the location of it and some "things to check'. MAP, Mass Airflow, fuel presssure regulator, Throttle Position sensor? Idk
Wednesday, December 17th, 2025 AT 11:57 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,882 POSTS
Yep, this codes will not make it not start, but I need to know if the engine is not cranking (starter) or is the engine cranking and not running? If it is cranking and not running we need to know if it is fuel, spark or compression related. Here is a video to help us get started.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXLJbuAZ4CE

Also, I would disconnect the MAF sensor and try to start it, when this sensor fails it will make the engine not start. Also, if it odes not have spark it can be the crankshaft angle sensor. Please go over the video to help us get started. Also, please start a new thread for the EVAP codes once the engine is running again.
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Thursday, December 18th, 2025 AT 10:10 AM
Tiny
RYDER1477
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  • 46 POSTS
The engine is cranking and not running. I tried disconnecting the MAF sensor. It my opinion it sounds like it isnt getting any spark. Like I havent even been able to get a hiccup out of it, just cranks over and over and over again. Hasnt fired once. But prior to 2 nights ago, it ran like a top. This is the first time this has happened to this vehicle.
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Thursday, December 18th, 2025 AT 4:56 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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  • 54,882 POSTS
Yep, if you go over the video above you can see how to check for spark to confirm the issue, and if so I would connect a scanner and then read the engine RPM when cranking and if is shows none replace the crankshaft angle sensor.
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Friday, December 19th, 2025 AT 10:39 AM

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