no start issue NOT PASSLOCK

2001 OLDSMOBILE ALERO
151,000 MILES • 2.4L • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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JAKEBSEYMOUR
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I have replaced fuel pump, the pcm, crankshaft position sensor, ignition control module, ignition lock cylinder both coils, and spark plugs!!!
The security light is NOT on nor is it flashing so it's not passlock!!!
The SES light is on, when I try starting it has small backfire out of the intake.
Will not start if starting fluid is sprayed In the intake so I think it's still a spark related issue.
I don't have a scanner or I would scan it.
This is getting very irritating I don't know what else it could be. Please help
Oct 2, 2015 at 5:36 AM
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WRENCHTECH
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 20,761 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
The check engine light will always be on if the key is on and the engine is not running.

It's time to stop throwing parts at it a do some diagnosing.


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.

4) If all of these things check good, then you would need to do a complete compression test.

Once you have determined which of these functions has dropped out,
you will know which system is having the problem.
Oct 2, 2015 at 6:10 AM
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WADEHENDERSON
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I have been having similar problems with this make and modle as well. When the car does not start, there seems to be a click sound missing in the dash. I suspect theirs is a relay not engaging but I do not know where it is so I can bypass it.

Suggestions?
Nov 28, 2015 at 7:01 AM
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STRAILER
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
This actually sounds like you have a starter motor that needs to be replaced. Here is a guide to help you see what you are in for when doing the job.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.

Cheers, Ken

Jan 31, 2018 at 6:20 PM
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