Engine cranking, no spark, no start after having the transmission rebuilt?

Tiny
DLOUIS
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 SUBARU FORESTER
  • 2.0L
  • 4 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 240,000 MILES
It started after transmission (all-wheel drive) was rebuilt and re-installed on the vehicle.

The vehicle will crank as normal but no start.

The issue was identified as no spark from the coil.

Since then:
Cam and crank sensors have been replaced and tested.
ignition coil (coil and igniter combo) has been replaced.

ECU has been replaced.

all ground connections on the engine and body have been cleaned and re-done.

fuel pump and fuel pressure okay.
fuses and relays tested okay, but still no spark.

one irregularity that has been observed is that the vehicle will crank in park, but no crank when in the neutral position (suggesting an issue with the neutral safety switch or inhibitor switch).

would a faulty inhibitor switch cause a no spark issue?

i have delayed on changing any more parts until I get some guidance.

About 11 to 14 codes show up on the OBD2 scan tool, (cannot be cleared).

I have been told that they are not of much use at this time.
Wednesday, December 13th, 2023 AT 8:18 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,363 POSTS
This sounds like a classic main system ground that has been left off during the job which can happen. I would go over the engine wiring harness to inspect the system grounds and then reconnect the one that has been disconnected. Use a flashlight to check around the bellhousing bolts, which is where the grounds will be missing. Please let us know what happens.
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Thursday, December 14th, 2023 AT 1:52 PM
Tiny
DLOUIS
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Thanks.

I will follow up on the grounds and let you know.

Any information on the inhibitor switch?

Can it cause the crank no start, if it is faulty or wrongly connected?

Thanks
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Friday, December 15th, 2023 AT 3:21 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 48,363 POSTS
There is no inhibitor switch, just a security system. Is the security light flashing when you try to crank it over?
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Saturday, December 16th, 2023 AT 10:34 AM

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