98 Saturn SL1 - Turns over but doesnt Start


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98 Saturn SL1 - Turns over but doesnt Start

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Auto Repair Home>> Automotive Repair>> Engine Troubleshooting

sdfgsdfg
Novice

Oct 12, 2012, 12:28 AM

Post #1 of 3 (1775 views)

98 Saturn SL1 - Turns over but doesnt Start	Sign In

I have a 1998 Saturn SL1

My problem that I am having is I can start the car maybe once a day if im lucky.
About 2 minutes later it just dies.
The car has full electrical power and I can turn the starter over and fuel pump sounds like its working
I am pretty sure its not sparking.
What could be wrong?

Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Hammer Time profile image

Oct 12, 2012, 3:08 AM

Post #2 of 3 (1739 views)

Re: 98 Saturn SL1 - Turns over but doesnt Start	Sign In

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.

sdfgsdfg
Novice

Oct 22, 2012, 11:59 AM

Post #3 of 3 (1663 views)

Re: 98 Saturn SL1 - Turns over but doesnt Start	Sign In

Thanks for the help
It turned out to be the Crankshaft Position Sensor
I replaced it and it fired up fine

Thank You

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