Intermittent not starting issue?

Tiny
MMOLLBERG
  • MEMBER
  • 1989 BUICK ELECTRA
  • 3.8L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 114,000 MILES
The car will start and run but sometimes after you shut it off it won't start again, but after it sits for a couple hours it will start back up.
Tuesday, October 4th, 2022 AT 5:08 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,192 POSTS
Hi,

Based on your description, it sounds like a faulty crankshaft position sensor. When they begin to fail, they are adversely affected by heat. Once it cools off, it will begin working again.

Here is what I need you to do. When it won't start, see if it starts for a couple of seconds using starting fluid. If it does, then we know it's a fuel-related issue. If there is no change, we need to check for an ignition spark to the plugs.

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

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

Additionally, here is a link that explains the symptoms related to a failing sensor. Take a look through it and let me know if you feel it mirrors what you experience.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-crankshaft-sensor

One last thought. You may want to consider checking to see if there are diagnostic trouble codes stored in the computer. This vehicle has an OBD1 system and doesn't require a scan tool to retrieve codes. All you need is a short jumper wire or even a paper clip. Here is a link that explains how it's done.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/buick-cadillac-chevy-gmc-oldsmobile-pontiac-gm-1983-1995-obd1-code-definitions-and-retrieval-method

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Tuesday, October 4th, 2022 AT 8:10 PM

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