97 Malibu won't start - Engine Troubleshooting


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97 Malibu won't start

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Auto Repair Home>> Automotive Repair>> Engine Troubleshooting

Lonedrow
New User

Nov 20, 2010, 7:22 AM

Post #1 of 4 (3184 views)

97 Malibu won't start	Sign In

Hi Guys

Ok I got a 1997 Chevy Malibu with the 3.1 V6 Auto trans. with 175k miles. Going down the highway it shut off. Tried to start several times and it woud turn but not start. At one time it did start but it was running really run, had a hard knocking sound, then stopped. Now when I try to start to just clicks. Everything lights up and works, just wont start. I've checked all fuses, starter, battery, spark plugs, and vacuum lines. I checked the codes and got two for the 02 sensor (number 2). Another code was for EVAP Vent Solenoid Control Circuit Malfunction. I don't know what else to check. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Hammer Time profile image

Nov 20, 2010, 9:30 AM

Post #2 of 4 (3178 views)

Re: 97 Malibu won't start	Sign In

Sounds like you have bigger problems than sensors. Put a socket and big breaker bar on the crankshaft bolt and see if you can turn the engine by hand. It may be seized.

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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.

(This post was edited by Hammer Time on Nov 20, 2010, 9:31 AM)

Lonedrow
New User

Nov 20, 2010, 6:09 PM

Post #3 of 4 (3169 views)

Re: 97 Malibu won't start	Sign In

Ok I will try that. If it is seized then does that mean I need a new motor or do a rebuild? Also, what would have caused it to seize if it did? Thank you very much for the information.

Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Hammer Time profile image

Nov 20, 2010, 6:12 PM

Post #4 of 4 (3167 views)

Re: 97 Malibu won't start	Sign In

Yep, that would be a new motor. Lack of lubrication is the most common cause of this. Check the engine oil and coolant level.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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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