Crank no start after overheating

Tiny
CRAIG HERBERT
  • MEMBER
  • 2006 CADILLAC STS
  • 3.6L
  • V6
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 200,000 MILES
Driving my car listed above 4 3.6 down the highway started over heating. It was really late so I kept driving in limp mode. Over heated again and wouldn't start back up. Got it home repaired bl the PCV valve which started it all. But now since than car will not start at all. Will finally crank but not start. Really need the help on this one. Been at it for about 1 month now. Read a ton some say change positive cable. Because sometimes when you try to start it. It will do the go black for a few minutes then back on as normal. But other times it will crank but not start. Please help.
Wednesday, April 21st, 2021 AT 10:46 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,796 POSTS
Good morning,

I would suspect the overheating is part of the issue. That needs to be addressed first. The fact you drove it overheated indicates you may have damaged a head gasket. If coolant gets into the cylinders, it will not start.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-overheating-or-running-hot

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

I attached a wiring diagram of the starting system as well. Check for battery voltage at the starter solenoid large terminal where the positive battery cable attaches.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

Roy
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Thursday, April 22nd, 2021 AT 2:10 AM
Tiny
CRAIG HERBERT
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Yes, thank you very much for the advice really. I have replaced the head gasket or in this case I think it's considered valve gasket. If not mistaken. I will also check for voltage here in the. Next hour or so. Will the engine crank with a bad starter solenoid?
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Thursday, April 22nd, 2021 AT 3:34 AM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,796 POSTS
No, it will not.

You are welcome.

Always glad to help.

Keep us updated.

Roy
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Thursday, April 22nd, 2021 AT 3:35 AM
Tiny
CRAIG HERBERT
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Then would that mean the starter solenoid is fine. Because the engine will crank but not start.
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Thursday, April 22nd, 2021 AT 3:37 AM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,796 POSTS
Okay, I would start with a compression test to be sure you have nothing internally wrong.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

Roy
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Thursday, April 22nd, 2021 AT 3:40 AM
Tiny
CRAIG HERBERT
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Thank you, will do. I'll get back with results. Talk soon and be careful out there.
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Thursday, April 22nd, 2021 AT 3:42 AM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,796 POSTS
You are welcome.

Roy
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Thursday, April 22nd, 2021 AT 3:44 AM

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