Engine cranks but wont catch

1996 OLDSMOBILE CUTLASS
70,000 MILES • 3.1L • V6 • FWD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
ROCKY9395
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Just bought the car. It needed a jump to start and would run fine. Replaced with a new battery, twice, with 650cca. Now it cranks but will not catch, even with a jump. A couple of times it almost caught but that was it.
Aug 7, 2016 at 9:45 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
HMAC300
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 48,601 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
try resetting security system or another key. your diode may be worn on that one. a new one wont work as it will need to be programmed to your car.
Aug 7, 2016 at 12:06 PM
Avatar
ROCKY9395
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
There is no security system and it is a standard ignition key. It started fine the first time, without a jump. I do not think it is the key. It almost fully started after a plug was pulled out and plugged back in to the air filter cover. Maybe a compression issue?
Aug 8, 2016 at 1:28 PM
Avatar
HMAC300
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 48,601 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
well there is a security system on it through the key even though it does not look like it. have it scanned for codes by a mechanic.
Aug 8, 2016 at 3:16 PM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Sometimes when you put a new battery in it can blow a fuse, also did you happen to jump it backwards? this will fry the computer, here is a guide so you can do some more checking

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

Check the fuel pressure as well. The pump may have went out.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator


Let us know what yo find

Best, Ken


Aug 8, 2016 at 5:35 PM
Avatar
ROCKY9395
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Ok thx I'll give these a try!
Aug 8, 2016 at 5:51 PM
Avatar
ROCKY9395
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Tried the starter fluid. The car started for about 20 seconds then puttered out, wouldn't restart.
Aug 15, 2016 at 2:20 PM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,832 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Okay, let's try check for injector pulse while it is not starting

here is a a guide that will help you

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-a-fuel-injector

Let me know what you find

Best, Ken
Aug 15, 2016 at 2:35 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.