Engine not firing

JASONW7684

MEMBER
1999 PONTIAC SUNFIRE
2.2L
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

The engine turns over but will not fire. It sounds like the timing is out but just replaced timing chain and cam shaft sensor. I have no idea what else to look for please help.

Tuesday, March 21st, 2017 AT 5:06 PM

5 Replies

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
12,959 POSTS

If you are sure the timing is OK check to see if you have a good crankshaft sensor. It controls the ignition timing. Bad one = no spark.

In your other post you say you have no compression, did you measure it or?

If no compression was the timing chain replaced because it had failed or slipped?
If it skipped teeth it probably bent some valves enough that they are leaking. Do a leak down test to see if that is the case.

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Tuesday, March 21st, 2017 AT 10:56 PM

JASONW7684

MEMBER
5 POSTS

Sorry I miss wrote this. Its firing but no compression. I replaced timing just to rule it out and everything on the old components were fine except tensor was wore. I am getting fire to my plugs. No I don't have the tools to check compression. Only thing I haven't done yet is pull plugs and check that piston are lifting.

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Wednesday, March 22nd, 2017 AT 6:26 AM

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
12,959 POSTS

You can rent/borrow a leak down tester from many auto parts stores. With that you can find out why you don't have compression. The air will take the path of least resistance.

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Wednesday, March 22nd, 2017 AT 8:51 AM

JASONW7684

MEMBER
5 POSTS

I know these cars had a recall with their anti theft. My dad wired around it instead of taking it to have it done right, is there a chance that the anti theft has it "locked out"

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Wednesday, August 30th, 2017 AT 6:54 AM

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
12,959 POSTS

The passkey system will lock out the starter and the fuel system if it activates. Neither will operate for 4 minutes if it turns on. So the engine won't turn over or run. Plus the security light would be flashing.