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-   -   Car won't start (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=135571)

  • Sep 30, 2007, 02:52 PM
    Csantiag
    Car won't start
    I have a car that is just used to get back and forth to the train that will not start. The parking lot flooded one day while I was away. By the time I cam e back the water was gone, but it won't start not. If I can't fix it I'm going to trash it. Here are the specs.
    1997 Chevy Cavalier 2.2 liter engine.

    The car is in park and the front is up on a ramp so I can get under it.
    The battery is Good.
    I have a full gas tank.
    The oil looks clean - no evidence of water
    When I turn the key into first position all lights and accessories work.
    The fuel pump sound which normally shuts off after a few seconds never stops humming.
    When I try to crank the car the starter does it's job and cranks fine.
    It will crank but never turn over.
    I tested for spark and got none.
    I replaced 4 spark plugs, wires and the ignition coils.
    When I replaced the ignition coil it was basically done blind. It was in a very difficult place to reach but as best as I can tell it was installed exactly as the old ones were. All wires clicked into place.
    Still no spark.
    Given that the coil pack, spark plugs, battery, and wire are all new what could I be missing?
    Could it be my computer? A sensor?
    I have no blown fuses.
    I have a code reader but it will not make a connection. I don't know if this is an indication of a bad computer or simply because the car won't turn on.
    Any suggestions?
  • Sep 30, 2007, 03:05 PM
    CaptainRich
    Any evidence of water on the old coils?

    I'm thinking if other ignition components, like the ignition control module, also got wet they may need replaced, too.

    Also, does the check engine light come on with key on, engine off? It should come on and flash for a few seconds and then stay on steady. That would be a sign that the ECM is still alive (not wet).
  • Sep 30, 2007, 05:16 PM
    TxGreaseMonkey
    . Check all under-dash and under-hood fuses with a test light or multimeter. Here's how:

    https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/cars-t...tml#post252145

    . Remove the Ignition Control Module and have it tested for free at AutoZone. Here's what it looks like:

    While we find your parts, please enter your ZIP Code at PartsAmerica.com

    . Check the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP). They are located close to the crankshaft and easily affected when cars are flooded. Here's what it looks like:

    While we find your parts, please enter your ZIP Code at PartsAmerica.com

    If the computer got flooded, there's a good chance it is ruined--happens all the time. However, a remanufactured ECM is not too expensive, provided the rest of the car is in good shape and worth saving.
  • Oct 1, 2007, 05:09 PM
    Csantiag
    First off I want to thank you guys for being willing to share your know how. The guys at the car parts stores are too afraid of being liable for giving bad advice to be of any help. All they say is - get a mechanic, which who knows, I might wind up needing, but I want to try first. So thanks again for helping the novice grease monkey. Anyway, to answer your questions...

    To Captain Rich:
    When I put the key in the first position the following lights turn on on the dash:
    Air bag, Seat belt, Low Radiator fluid, check engine, battery, Oil, Check guages, brake, ABS, Daytime running lights, theft system
    I hear six beeps and after about the third beep the check gauges, brake, and ABS light turn off.
    Is there any easy way to get at the ignition control module? The coil pack was very difficult to reach I basically had to feel my way around. I'm not sure if I was supposed to remove something first to have easier access but I couldn't find anything that looked easy to remove.

    To Txgreasemonkey:
    Can you tell me where to find the computer?
  • Oct 1, 2007, 05:20 PM
    TxGreaseMonkey
    It's likely on the passenger-side of the firwall. Look for a major wire harness going to it from the engine. Normally, there are two bolts securing it. Be sure to disconnect the negative battery cable first.
  • Nov 21, 2007, 06:58 AM
    Csantiag
    I found a used computer on eBay for 49 bucks and swapped it out. I had to reprogram the theft control system by attempting to turn on the car - letting it shut off on me and then leaving the key in the "ON" position for 10 minutes. When I came back to the car the codes were syncronized and the car turned on.

    I let the car run for about 10 minutes and then tried to drive it. Reverse works fine but the car immediately shuts off if I put it in any forward gear. This has been a fun learning experience but unless anyone has a simply thing to try this adventure is going to be ending soon. I'm not sure how getting wet would mess up the transmission. Unfortunately I can't find a way to check the transmission fluid in this car.

    In addition Air bag light and ETS Off lights are now on on the dash
  • Nov 21, 2007, 06:59 AM
    Csantiag
    Comment on TxGreaseMonkey's post
    The advice was right on - very helpful for and easy to follow for the non mechanic

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