Engine does not fire when trying to start

1994 CHEVROLET CAVALIER

312,000 MILES • 2.0L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

BMAYNARD66

MEMBER
2 POSTS

After having a starter, ignition switch, and battery replaced 10 days ago, I got up on a cold Saturday in TN (It was a windy 34 degrees) and went shopping. After going to a store, I tried to start my car, but the engine would not fire. I had the car towed home. The next day in the early afternoon of a 70-degree day the car started. I thought it was okay, but later, about 6 pm, I tried to start it, but it would not fire. An older neighbor came down to my house and checked the air filter (It was filthy and hadn't been changed in at least 5 years I'm sorry to say) He gave me some starting fluid with instructions for use in case it would not start the next day. He also told me to check and maybe change the PCV valve if the firing problems persist. Is there anything else I might want to consider looking into here?

Apr 10, 2022 at 11:26 AM

STRAILER

✓Experienced Mechanic
55,273 POSTS

This is typical when the fuel pump goes out which is common on these cars, to be sure try to crank the engine over while spraying starting fluid, if it runs, I would do the fuel pump. Here are two guides to help with the fuel pump replacement instructions for your car in the diagrams below:

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

and

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-an-electric-fuel-pump

Video of the job being done

https://youtu.be/Lhd0vd8pdBU

Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem.

Apr 11, 2022 at 5:07 AM

BMAYNARD66

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I have considered this. How do you test for Fuel pump failure? One test I have seen is: Put the ignition switch in the "on" position and listen for a short hum. This is the fuel pump engaging for a 5 second duration prior to start. I heard nothing when I tried this. Are there other tests to verify fuel pump failure?

Apr 11, 2022 at 7:53 AM

STRAILER

✓Experienced Mechanic
55,273 POSTS

Yep, you can use a test light to probe the wiring harness at the tank, when you turn the key on the test light should come on for about 5 seconds.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

The color wire you want is gray, also I noticed it has an oil pressure switch the power wire for the pump runs through this can be a problem as well. Here is the wiring diagram so you can see how the system works. Try to bypass the oil sender to get the pump to work. Check out the diagrams (below). Please let us know what you find. We are interested to see what it is.

Image (Click to enlarge)

Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
Click here to log in and view diagram.

Apr 12, 2022 at 5:20 AM

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.