1999 Saturn SW2 car won't start

KNGHTHAWKE

MEMBER
1999 SATURN SW2
4 CYL
AUTOMATIC
79,000 MILES

Ok a couple of day a ago I started the car like normal. I drove it maybe a mile and stopped to get coffee, came back out and it wouldn't start. I ended up getting a ride to work and leaving the car. After I got off I went back to get the car. I put the key in to try it and it started up fine, and got me home. So I let it sit in my parking lot for a couple of day. I started it yesterday, but didn't move it and it started up fine twice. I just started it this morning and it started I ran it a couple of miles and it was running fine. Then I pull back in and stopped it and it won't start again. So I was wondering what could be causing this?

1 Reply

WRENCHTECH

MECHANIC
20,761 POSTS

All "crank, no start" conditions are approached in the same way. Every engine requires certain functions to be able to run. Some of these functions rely on specific components to work and some components are part of more than one function so it is important to see the whole picture to be able to conclude anything about what may have failed. Also, these functions can ONLY be tested during the failure. Any other time and they will simply test good because the problem isn't present at the moment.
If you approach this in any other way, you are merely guessing and that only serves to replace unnecessary parts and wastes money.

Every engine requires spark, fuel and compression to run. That's what we have to look for.

These are the basics that need to be tested and will give us the info required to isolate a cause.

1) Test for spark at the plug end of the wire using a spark tester. If none found, check for power supply on the + terminal of the coil with the key on.

2) Test for injector pulse using a small bulb called a noid light. If none found, check for power supply at one side of the injector with the key on.

3) Use a fuel pressure gauge to test for correct fuel pressure, also noticing if the pressure holds when key is shut off.

Once you have determined which of these functions has dropped out,
you will know which system is having the problem.