2002 Buick Regal problem

D_PASOVIC1995

MEMBER
2002 BUICK REGAL
118,000 MILES

I have a 2002 buick regal and it can drive maybe 150 feet and then it turns off and I cant start it for a while but I can start it once I turn on my hazards and it will drive normally and it doesnt turn off it drives fine. I know its something electrical but I have no idea what it can be, I checked the battery, I checked the fuse box and I wanted to check the starter relay but I cannot find it. I tried plugging my car into the computer but no codes came up. Can you tell me what the problem is? How can I fix it? How much is it?

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.

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.