I got off work and got outside the car wouldn't start?

Tiny
ERIC03CAV
  • MEMBER
  • 2003 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
  • 2.2L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 160,000 MILES
Exactly like the question say. We have had it 3 months and car was working perfect besides a few minor fixes like coolant reservoir, radiator fan, and steering wheel tilt issue. One morning on the way to work the check engine light came on but no affect change in performance. And when I got off work and got outside the car wouldn't start. I hear the fuel pump engage or buzz when I turn the key. I took the valve cover off and the timing on gears appears to be right where it should be, upper 2 anyway, which it's chain driven. Shows no codes on dash or when connected to code reader. Has spark when checked. Has fuel pressure when I press the Schrader valve before the fuel rail, however don't know if it's correct but it is, it does sprays out though. Don't think it's the injectors because I can't see all 4 clogging at once. I'm really not sure? I need ideas and help with one?
Wednesday, October 23rd, 2019 AT 8:25 PM

2 Replies

Tiny
SCGRANTURISMO
  • MECHANIC
  • 4,897 POSTS
Hello,

Well, a vehicle's engine only needs three things and then it has really has no choice but to start. They are, in no particular order, fuel, spark[delivered at the proper time], and compression. If your vehicle has fuel pressure at the fuel rail, and it has spark, then this would only leave compression as the problem. In the link below is a guide on how to do a compression check:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

Please go through this guide and get back to us with what you are able to find out.

Thanks,
Alex
2CarPros
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Thursday, October 24th, 2019 AT 12:07 AM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 47,602 POSTS
This sounds like the crankshaft angle sensor or the fuel pump has gone out. when you turn the key to the on position without cranking the engine over can you hear the fuel pump run in the tank for 5 seconds? These guides should help us fix it:

https://youtu.be/dCjmRL3p4Cs

and

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

Also, lets run the codes to see what come up.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/checking-a-service-engine-soon-or-check-engine-light-on-or-flashing

Please run down these guides and report back.
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Wednesday, June 16th, 2021 AT 3:35 PM

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