Engine cranks but does not start?

Hi,

If the timing belt breaks, it will cause major internal damage to this vehicle. This is what is referred to as an interference engine. Basically, there isn't enough room between the top of the pistons and the valves when they open. So, if the timing is off while running as a result of the belt breaking, they will hit.

Now, do you have the vehicle? If the belt hasn't broken, we need to check for spark and fuel to the engine. See if the engine will start with starting fluid. If it does and then stalls, we know it is fuel related. If there is no change, suspect an ignition issue. Here is a link that explains how to test for ignition spark to the plugs. Do this and let me know what is found.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

Next, if you could record the engine cranking and upload it for me to hear, I usually can tell if the timing belt has broken or if the timing is an issue.

As far as the water pump goes, in and of itself, it won't prevent the engine from starting. Also, it's a bit hard to believe that all the coils failed at the same time as well. So, let me know as much as you can. For example, were there symptoms prior to failure? Was the engine overheating? Were there any strange sounds from the engine?

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

The timing belt was not broken. The engine never overheated per the temperature gauge, and after changing plugs and coils still running rough. They say after all that needs engine replacement…

Hi,

Unless it was abused or things like oil changes were never done, the engine shouldn't need to be replaced. I had a dealer tell one of my customers he needed an engine because there was an oil leak at the rear of the engine and the oil light flashed at idle. Ugh!!! I installed a twenty-dollar oil pressure switch that was leaking and now the vehicle has over 200,000. The switch was under the intake which made it a bit more difficult, but there was absolutely nothing wrong with the engine.

Are you able to work on the vehicle yourself? Also, by chance do you have a scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes? If you don't have any of the tools, the easiest things to try are what I suggested above. See if it will start for a few seconds using starting fluid.

Try that and let me know the results.

Take care,

Joe

PS: I just reviewed your reply again. Is the vehicle now running?

It's back at my home as of today. Yes, it will crank but runs rough. I crank and moved it off my driveway… But to get it from AAA auto service I paid $2,000.00 for a timing belt and water pump.

Wait... They charged you $2,000.00 for a timing belt and pump and it doesn't run good? Is the check engine light staying on when it runs? Do you have access to a scan tool?

Let me know. Also, if you could record the engine cranking and running and upload it for me, I may have some ideas.

Let me know.

Joe

I don’t have a scan tool… No check engine light running.

Oil changes done at least at 35-3800 miles.

I’ll record in the morning….: thank you for your help….

Hi,

If the oil was only changed at 3,800 miles and never again, then there is a good chance the engine has internal wear.

Or do you mean they were done at 3800-mile intervals?

Let me know that. Also, let me know if you checked for engine vacuum leaks and if there is any way you can get your hands on a scan tool. Some parts stores will lend one to you.

Here is a link that explains how to check for vacuum leaks:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

Let me know.

Joe

3,800 mile intervals. I’m not stupid guys… I keep asking myself what did I do wrong….. nothing that can come up with.

LOL I just needed to confirm. I've had three year old vehicles in with 80K and the original oil. (But they added when needed) They didn't sound too good. Ugh. Chances are you did nothing wrong.

First, check for vacuum leaks. If there are none, then I am going to suggest checking engine compression. We will cross that bridge when and if we reach it.

Let me know.

Joe