1999 Cadillac STS My Cadillac Will Not Start

CADDYSTS99

MEMBER
1999 CADILLAC STS
V8
FWD
AUTOMATIC
195,000 MILES

I just purchased my first car as a fixer upper, its in good condition aside from the missing sound system and blown headgasket. Before I fix the head I would like the car to start! Previous owner just put in a new starter. Everything electrical works flawlessly aside from when I try to start the engine. I turn the key and the dash flashes and I hear a small pop or crack from the engine bay and that's it. It doesn't sound like its trying to start. I checked the IGN Minifuses on the Fuse Relays. I do not know how to check Mini Relays, Maxi Fuses and Maxi Breakers. Thanks for your help! :)

3 Replies

FACTORYJACK

MECHANIC
4,159 POSTS

There is a connector behind the power steering pump that joins a harness that runs under the intake. This has a large purple wire in it, that is the starter signal wire. Jump power on the starter side of that connector and see if the starter/engine turns over. If it does, check the harness side of that connector with a test light when the key is turned to crank, it should light. If it does not turn over, check the ground cable from the alternator mounting to the frame for breakage/tightness. It could be possible that it is hydrolocked as well. If you can't get it to turn over jumping the starter signal wire, remove the plugs and try it.