Intermittent not starting issue?

367367MG

MEMBER
1987 OLDSMOBILE CUTLASS
3.8L
6 CYL
AUTOMATIC
200,000 MILES

The car will start on occasion and other times it won't. It's a V6 engine and the owner we bought it from can't figure it out either. The positive thing about ca4 is that it will always eventually work again within 15 minutes of waiting time. Got a new battery, new starter and coil for car. I even bought an air max sensor. After all those things car has same problem?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,867 POSTS

Hi,

When it fails to start, I need you to try a couple of things. First, see if it will start if you use starting fluid. If it does and then stalls, we know it's a fuel-related issue.

If there is no change, I need you to check for spark at the spark plugs.

Here is a link that explains how this is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

This vehicle has a primitive crankshaft position sensor that may be failing. If it is, you will lose spark to the plugs. Take a look at this link:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-crankshaft-sensor

Also, it would be a good idea to check for diagnostic trouble codes. This vehicle has an OBD1 system. You don't need a scanner to check for codes. All that is needed is a short jumper wire or even a paper clip. Follow the directions in this link and let me know if codes are retrieved and what they are:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/buick-cadillac-chevy-gmc-oldsmobile-pontiac-gm-1983-1995-obd1-code-definitions-and-retrieval-method

Also, let me know if the spark is lost as well. I attached a pic below showing the sensor in question.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to make bigger)