Engine cranks but does not start

Tiny
WANDA C. BROWN
  • MEMBER
  • 2009 KIA SPECTRA
  • 2.0L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 172,000 MILES
Everything in the car to my knowledge is okay. Fuses are good, sparkplugs are good, the timing is aligned, but it still won't start. Also, we got a crankshaft sensor but have problems finding where the sensor is. Need that information as well.
Thursday, March 31st, 2022 AT 3:37 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Hi,

First, I attached two pics below. Pic 1 shows the general location of the sensor, and pic two shows the sensor itself.

Here is the thing. In most cases, either ignition spark or fuel is lost to the engine. The easiest thing to do is this. See if the engine starts for a couple of seconds using starting fluid. If it does and then stalls, we know it's a fuel-related issue. If there is no change, then it is likely ignition-related (which could involve the crankshaft position sensor).

So, if there is no change with starting fluid, we need to check for ignition spark to the plugs. Here is a link that explains how that is done:

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

If there is no spark, then my first suspect is the crankshaft position sensor. However, don't replace it until you get to this point. If it is something other, you can return the sensor.

Try this and let me know what is found.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Thursday, March 31st, 2022 AT 8:31 PM
Tiny
WANDA C. BROWN
  • MEMBER
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We have already done all that stuff we are to the point is we put the new crankshaft sensor, but it still didn't start so they put the old one back. So, now we are thinking that was the wrong place and really need someone with more knowledge to put the sensor on/ in the right place.
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Sunday, April 3rd, 2022 AT 11:08 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Hi,

Where did you place it? Also, have you confirmed there is no spark to the plugs? You indicated you did the things I mentioned, I'm just not sure of the results. Let me know.

Also, the sensor you want is to the left of the upper radiator hose. The oil pressure sensor is near it, but the crankshaft position sensor is on the right side of the two. See pic 1

Let me know what has been found or determined at this point.

Take care,

Joe
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Sunday, April 3rd, 2022 AT 4:53 PM
Tiny
WANDA C. BROWN
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
When we first started with this, we found that the spark plugs needed to be replaced, so, we replaced them. We bought a crankshaft but when we put it in it it didn't work, but then we realized the new one doesn't look like the old one. I am sending two pictures, one of the new one and one of the old one, maybe you can tell me if we have the right one or need to order one that looks like the first one is the old crankshaft and the second is the new one. I have ordered one like the white one a few days ago.
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Monday, April 4th, 2022 AT 6:43 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Hi,

The sensor is basically a magnet. The biggest concern is that it has the correct connector, and it is the same diameter and length.

Do those things appear to be the same?

Let me know.

Joe
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Monday, April 4th, 2022 AT 2:01 PM
Tiny
WANDA C. BROWN
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
No one is more rounded then the other and the black one is knobby and not as round as the white one.
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Wednesday, April 6th, 2022 AT 6:09 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
What I suggest is to take the old one with you to the parts store and show them what is needed. It's certainly possible that you were given the wrong part.

Wanda, hand in there. We'll get it figured out one way or another.

I will watch for your reply.

Take care,

Joe
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Wednesday, April 6th, 2022 AT 4:43 PM

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