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Car has trouble starting - possible electrical problem?
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Haxksaw
New User
Jun 11, 2017, 5:17 PM
Post #1 of 2
(1468 views)
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Car has trouble starting - possible electrical problem?
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I just recently purchased a 2007 Pontiac Vibe from a dealership about a month and a half ago. They had a 27 point inspection done to it and put $1600 into it on repairs.
Just a couple weeks ago I have had this weird problem where my car won't start. It will crank, dashboard lights are on, but won't start. I eventually did get it to start though, no jump needed.
I've ignored it for a little while and it's only happened on a few occasions since then. But just yesterday I noticed one common thing that seems to possibly play a factor in it finally starting. I open and close my car door and it will start right after.
I took it to AutoZone today just to check the battery and alternator and they say they are perfect. So I mentioned this issue I had with it starting and the possible solution to getting it to start, and they think it is an electrical issue.
Thoughts?
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Jun 11, 2017, 5:44 PM
Post #2 of 2
(1459 views)
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Re: Car has trouble starting - possible electrical problem?
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All "crank, no start" conditions are approached in the same way. Every engine requires certain functions to be able to run. Some of these functions rely on specific components to work and some components are part of more than one function so it is important to see the whole picture to be able to conclude anything about what may have failed. Also, these functions can ONLY be tested during the failure. Any other time and they will simply test good because the problem isn't present at the moment.
If you approach this in any other way, you are merely guessing and that only serves to replace unnecessary parts and wastes money.
Every engine requires spark, fuel and compression to run. That's what we have to look for.
These are the basics that need to be tested and will give us the info required to isolate a cause.
1) Test for spark at the plug end of the wire using a spark tester. If none found, check for power supply on the + terminal of the coil with the key on.
2) Test for injector pulse using a small bulb called a noid light. If none found, check for power supply at one side of the injector with the key on.
3) Use a fuel pressure gauge to test for correct fuel pressure, also noticing if the pressure holds when key is shut off.
4) If all of these things check good, then you would need to do a complete compression test.
Once you have determined which of these functions has dropped out,
you will know which system is having the problem.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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