Crank but no start

2005 CADILLAC SRX
150,000 MILES • 4.6L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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DAVISMELODY6669
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  • 65 POSTS
My mother's crossover has been sitting for two years. I've added a new battery, it cranks but doesn't start. Smelled the exhaust tail pipe, and it smells like gas. After trying and trying smoke came out under the throttle body and it smelled like burned wires (not oil). either i have no spark or a short in the wires. Please help i would really appreciate it. Thank you
Nov 29, 2021 at 3:43 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

Is the fuel in the vehicle two years old as well? Also, did you see if it would start for a couple of seconds using starting fluid? If it starts then stalls, we know it is a fuel-related issue. If there is no change, then it is likely ignition-related (no spark).

Do me a favor. See what happens when you use starting fluid. If you have no luck with that, here is a link that shows how to test for spark:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions. Also, the idea that something smoked and smelled electrical has me a bit concerned. Make sure to inspect wiring near where the smoke came from. Also, check at the starter as well. If it was overheated, that could be what you saw as well.

I will watch for your reply.

Joe
Nov 29, 2021 at 10:39 AM
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DAVISMELODY6669
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  • 65 POSTS
I tried and nothing. i guess the crossover has no spark.
Nov 30, 2021 at 5:21 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
By chance, do you have a scan tool to check for codes? If you do, and it provides live data, can you check for an RPM signal when cranking, and let me know what you find?

Also, if there is a tachometer in the vehicle, see if it moves slightly when cranking. I'm starting to question an issue with the crankshaft position sensor. Take a look through this link. It explains common symptoms.

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

Let me know what you find.

Joe
Nov 30, 2021 at 9:01 AM
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