1988 Volvo 960 Engine turns but doesn't start

NLAUREN

MEMBER
1988 VOLVO 960
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
45,000 MILES

Replaced only the fuel pump under the car about 2 and 1/2 years ago and it ran for about 18 months. Pulled into the driveway and then next time it would not start. Engine will turn over but does not run. It's been sitting in the driveway in North Carolina for the last 9 months. Replaced the fuel pump again and fillter yesterday with the same result; engine turns but does not run. There is no fuel smell in the engine compartment after trying to start the car a number of times. There is some gas in the tank but is not full, put 2 gallons of gas in before trying to start it again. The car is parked on a slight slope with the front of the car lower than the rear.
The car was owned by my aunt and uncle who did not drive it much but did maintain it well.

1 Reply

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

Do below to find out whether it's a fuel or spark problem:

Cranks and w/n start

Get a helper disconnect a sparkplug wire or 2 and ground it to the engine -have helper crank engine over-do you have a snapping blue spark? If so-you have a fuel related problem, check the fuel pressure to rule out the fuel filter/fuel pump/pressure regulator and listen to the injector/s are they pulsing or hook up a noid light. No snapping blue spark continue to troubleshoot the ignition system-power input to the coil/coil packs, coil's resistances, distributor pick-up coil, ignition control module, cam and crank sensors and computer Note: If it doesn't apply disregard it