Crank, no start

GOMEZJB714

MEMBER
1998 HONDA CIVIC
1.6L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
220,000 MILES

Previous owner was in accident leaving radiator support bent in. Had tied support beam to tree and was reversing to align. Gave some revs. It straightened but not enough So after just a bit more juice the car shut off.
Now only cranks but no turn over.

New battery
New spark plugs
New distributor

Thinking crankshaft position sensor, fuel pump or compression.

The scenario of reversing while tied is the focal point why it shut off and trying to figure what specifically is damaged due to shut off during.
Besides just engine failure

Cranks sounds like a skip almost.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,779 POSTS

Hi,

The crank no-start condition can be caused by a couple of things. In most cases, it is either related to a fuel issue or an ignition issue. You could try to see if it starts using starting fluid for a few seconds and then stalls. That would indicate a fuel pressure issue. If it doesn't change anything, then it is likely related to ignition spark.

First, take a look through this link. It discusses the most common causes of a crank no start.

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

Also, here are two additional links. One is for testing ignition spark and the other for testing fuel pressure.

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

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

Start by checking those things and let me know the results. Also, if it's possible for you to record it cranking and upload it for me to hear, it may be helpful. The skip you are referring to has me concerned. It could be a timing issue.

Take care and I'll watch for your reply.

Joe