2000 Pontiac Grand Am Won't Start
Suggested Repair
Use the original chipped ignition key and perform the passlock relearn: after a no-start, leave the key in RUN for about 10 minutes and repeat as needed. A non-original key can put the system in lock mode and prevent restart even when the engine fires, has fuel, and has compression. Fuel pressure was already about 57 psi; other items discussed but not confirmed were the fuel pressure regulator, ignition-module cover carbon tracking, and timing-chain or cam-sprocket alignment after the backfire.
Conversation Summary
A 2000 Pontiac Grand Am 2.4L backfired on startup and then would not stay running. It would fire once, wet the plugs, and set no codes. The owner had already replaced the ignition module, plugs, coils, camshaft sensor, and crankshaft sensor, and measured fuel pressure at about 57 psi. A shop could not find the cause. Experts suggested checking the fuel pressure regulator, ignition cover for carbon tracks, and possible timing damage from the backfire, then raised a passlock issue from using a non-original key. Using the original key and leaving it in RUN for about 10 minutes, repeated three times, allowed the car to start.
