First, the car started and moved about 10 feet and died. Then it wouldn't start again. I've replaced the battery and the Engine Control Module. When you turn on the ignition, all the lights emit on the dash, however when you try to crank it, there's nothing. I can cross-wire the starter and the car cranks fine, but it won't start even with the key in the on position. Seems like something is cutting out the power to the starter, and maybe the coils. I've checked all fuses and they are good and I've swapped all relays. I'm thinking the last thing it could be is the iginition switch....anyone else have any recommendations? Oh...it's a 1991 Olds 98 with the 3.8 V6.
2007-01-06 10:43:58 · 5 answers · asked by Lee R 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
You may have several problems.
The object is to eliminate them in a logical fashion to avoid spending time, effort and money where it doesn't need to be spent.
A test light can help a great deal to determine where the fault(s) lie. They are usually available at the parts stores for < $15.00.
Use the test light to determine if there is power at the (S) terminal of the starter when the key is in the START position. If not, you now know that the ignition switch is most likely the failure for the "no-crank".
When you can get it to crank, check for spark.
Use a screwdriver in one of the plug terminals and place it very close to a bracket or bolt on the engine. When cranking, there should be a very strong spark jumping across the gap of the screwdriver and the engine.
If there is no spark, use your test light to test one of the injectors for a pulse.
With the key in the on position, back-probe the connector and check which wire does not turn on the light. Then crank the engine and observe the light on that terminal, if it flashes, then the problem is most likely in the ignition system itself.
If ther is no flash and it just remains on, then the cause is most likely the cam-crank sensor. This is a common failure for this engine.
Happy Motoring
2007-01-06 11:22:11 · answer #1 · answered by Ironhand 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Sounds like the iginition switch to me.
2007-01-06 11:22:22 · answer #2 · answered by big taco 78 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
check the battery ground cable. I think is loose.
and the alternator gave up.
nope I am not kidding.
2007-01-06 12:03:18 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
What about the solenoid switch? And yes, maybe the ignition switch.
2007-01-06 10:48:16 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
iron hand says it all good luck
2007-01-06 11:24:04 · answer #5 · answered by drvshaftdrew 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋