Engine cranks but does not start?

Tiny
REDBONE
  • MEMBER
  • 2012 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE
  • 3.6L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 187,000 MILES
My wife was going to leave, and she said the car turned over then she heard a bang noise. I tried to start it and found that the starter went out, replaced the starter and now the car cranks but won't start.
Tuesday, October 24th, 2023 AT 3:34 PM

11 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

When you have a crank no start condition, it is usually the result of loss of fuel or ignition spark. Here is what I need you to try:

To determine if it is a fuel or ignition-related issue, see if it starts using starting fluid. If it does and then stalls, we know its fuel related. If there is no change, check to see if you have spark at the plugs.

Here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

joe
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Tuesday, October 24th, 2023 AT 6:08 PM
Tiny
REDBONE
  • MEMBER
  • 105 POSTS
I finally got the car to run and it ran poorly, after I shut it off I checked for codes and got poo17 and poo18 codes. Does that mean I need to replace the timing chain or put new crank and cam sensor in?
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Tuesday, October 24th, 2023 AT 6:41 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

If they both came on at the same time, I suspect it is either a stretched chain issue, a chain tensioner, or a chain jumped time.

There are three timing chains on this engine, a primary, a left secondary, and a right secondary. See pics below.

Here is the odd thing, I question if it is a secondary chain because each bank (or side of the engine) has a related code. So, my first suspect is the primary chain either lost tension or is a tooth off.

On the other hand, is the engine oil clean and full? There could be a hydraulic issue with the variable valve timing, but both sides failing at the same time is odd. Ugh. This won't be an easy one. LOL

I suspect the timing chain cover needs to be removed for inspection of the chains, tensioners, and correct timing.

Let me know your thoughts.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Tuesday, October 24th, 2023 AT 7:17 PM
Tiny
REDBONE
  • MEMBER
  • 105 POSTS
I thought about changing the VVT solenoids and checking the car to see if I get the same codes, if I do then I know to check the timing chain, also I would have new VVT solenoids. I know that would be more money but at least I know it has new VVT solenoids in it, or should I just go ahead and check the timing chain?
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Tuesday, October 24th, 2023 AT 7:41 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

That would be easier. LOL However, the bank two intake actuator is a bit of a pain. LOL I attached the directions below for both and identified the ones in question.

Let me know how things work out for you. Also, make sure the oil is clean and full.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Tuesday, October 24th, 2023 AT 8:02 PM
Tiny
REDBONE
  • MEMBER
  • 105 POSTS
Thanks for all the information. I now have to figure out which way to go, personally I think I am just going to change the timing chain.
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Tuesday, October 24th, 2023 AT 8:08 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

No problem whatsoever. Let me know what you decide, and I'll help get you through it.

Take care,

Joe
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Tuesday, October 24th, 2023 AT 8:30 PM
Tiny
REDBONE
  • MEMBER
  • 105 POSTS
I HAD THE CAR IDLE FOR 3TO 4 MIN then it stalled and it wont run again put new cam sensors in and still not running, is it best to put in timing chain or get a engine, car has 183000 mikes on it.
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Monday, August 18th, 2025 AT 2:32 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,144 POSTS
That is up to you, if you want to try and save the engine I would replace the timing chain, if it was maintained and the inside of the engine is clean I would do the repair but if it is full of sludge I would get a rebuilt engine.
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Wednesday, August 20th, 2025 AT 9:51 AM
Tiny
REDBONE
  • MEMBER
  • 105 POSTS
Ok, thanks for all the input, it was greatly apperciated
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Thursday, August 21st, 2025 AT 1:47 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,144 POSTS
You are welcome, please use 2CarPros anytime we are here to help.
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Friday, August 22nd, 2025 AT 8:30 AM

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