Drive down the freeway and the engine just cuts off?

JESSICA GIESSEN

MEMBER
1998 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
2.2L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
126,000 MILES

Well, I was drive down the freeway and the engine just cuts off. And the vehicle hasn't started since. I replaced the fuel relay switch, I've also checked the fuel filter it's clean the pump is working now that the relay is new. I've also checked for spark, fuel and compression. That's all good. So I am stumped as to what it could be. I don't want to put more money into this car if I don't have to. Please help!

3 Replies

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

If this is a crank no start then we need to run through this guide and see what turns up:

https://youtu.be/dCjmRL3p4Cs

However, I think we need to clarify how you confirmed there is no fuel or spark. The engine just needs fuel, spark, and compression to run so I am thinking we are missing something.

Have you checked the fuel pressure?

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Let me know what the pressure is and then how you checked for spark. Did you pull a spark plug and then crank the engine?

Let's start with this info and go from there. Thanks

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Thursday, June 17th, 2021 AT 6:20 PM

JESSICA GIESSEN

MEMBER
2 POSTS

The vehicle is getting fuel, spark, and compression. Yes it will crank but no start.

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Friday, June 18th, 2021 AT 10:00 AM

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Okay. More than likely we are missing something because if you have all three, it should be starting.

So are you checking the fuel pressure? If so, what is the PSI when cranking the engine?

Also, what are the compression readings you are getting?

Then how are you checking spark? We need to pull a plug and make sure it is getting all the way to the plug.

What do the spark plugs look like? Are they fouled?

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