1995 Saturn SC1 No Start After Engine Wash

1995 SATURN
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BRYGAL
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
We just bought this car about a month ago and needed to replace the radiator in it. It was burning oil and the engine was coated in it. So we took it to a local car wash to steam clean the engine. When they were done the car wouldn't start. We were able to pop the cluth and drive it home, but it wont start now. We replaced the battery and checked the starter, but it still wont start. We can get it started by poping the cluch, but otherwise not. If anyone can give us an idea what to check we would appericiate it!
Mar 1, 2006 at 12:34 PM
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BRYGAL
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
we took the starter in and found out that when it went through the car wash, it shorted out the starter. So after putting in a new starter the car works great.
Mar 2, 2006 at 3:38 PM
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MVANNESSJR
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 223 POSTS
Good to know you've solved the problem. Be careful with these car wash steam cleanings and such. They cause all kinds of problems from shorts to engine flooding. I would recommend having a professional detailer do any engine cleaning.
Mar 2, 2006 at 6:16 PM
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Suggested Repair

Replace the starter shorted by the car-wash steam cleaning. Avoid steam-cleaning the engine at a car wash; have a professional detailer clean it to prevent electrical shorts and flooding.

Conversation Summary

A 1995 Saturn SC1 would not start after a car-wash steam cleaning of an oil-coated engine. The battery was replaced and the starter was checked, but the car would only start by popping the clutch. The starter had been shorted by the wash, and a new starter restored normal starting. The expert advised against car-wash steam cleanings and recommended a professional detailer for engine cleaning.

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