I have a '93 Saturn SC2 and this is my 3rd winter with it. I never had this problem before. This morning it wouldn't start, and the day after the last big snow we had in December, it wouldn't either. The last time the shop told me I just needed to replace the spark plugs and I flooded the engine so they gave me an oil change and tune up. That's it. But today it did it again. It will try to turn over but it's as if the gas isn't getting to the engine or it's not sparking or something. Cause it does try to start but just doesn't make it. Like it's struggling. I wouldn't think I would need new spark plugs again when it's only been a little over a month. Why is this happening, what could it be and what can I do to prevent it?
Also, how do I prevent flooding the engine? How many times can I try to start the car and not flood it? I shouldn't push the gas when I do either right?
I appreciate any help with this from anyone.
2007-01-16 23:53:39 · 5 answers · asked by MissFawn30 1 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
there are a number of things that will keep it from starting. If you are not mechanically iclined it is rough. You need to detirmine if it is fuel or spark related. Fuel related get a can of starting fluid and give it a shot of starting fluid in the air breather. if it starts or even tries to start then it is fuel related. if it doesn't even try then you need to determine that you have spark. The best way I know to do this is to get a sparky( it is a tool that goes in line with the sparkplug) turn over the engine and if it flashes you are getting spark. If you have both fuel and spark then it could just be the age of the vehicle and a block heater could help. Good luck
2007-01-17 00:41:12 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
(I'm not familair with your '93 Saturn, but here goes...)
It probably has fuel injection, so there is no need to hit the gas to start it. If you have fuel delivery problems, the suggestion to turn the key on (but not start) for a few seconds first often allows the fuel pump to charge the lines. If this approach consistently "solves" your problem, advise your mechanic so he can repair it, as this approach is just a band-aid and great trick to get yourself home without a tow.
Another possibility could be moisture in your gas tank, lines or filter. Add a can of Dry Gas or similar product. It should be under $3.00 and will do no harm.
Your battery could be weak, old or undersized, as well as the starter may be ready for replacement. Advanced Auto Parts and possibly AutoZone can test your battery and charging system for free. The starter will have to be left for a mechanic.
Lastly, if you smell gas, typically a symptom of flooding. Check your manual for how to remedy this. Most of my GM vehicles can relieve flooding conditions by pressing the gas pedal to the floor and holding it there while cranking! (Yes, I know this sounds nuts, but it triggers the computer, when the car isn't running, that you want to clear a flood and adjusts the air/fuel mix accordingly). Again, verify this in your owners manual before attempting.
2007-01-17 00:09:05 · answer #2 · answered by KirksWorld 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
MAKE SURE YOU KEEP OVER A HALF A TANK OF GAS WHEN IT GETS TO FREEZING TEMPS AND WITH THE GAS LINE ANTI FREEZE PUT 2 BOTTLES BUT THE BEST WAY I FOUND TO DO IT IS GO BUY IT THEN GO TO GAS STATION POUR IT IN THEN FILL THE TANK SO IT WILL MIX BETTER AND ALSO A BLOCK HEATER CAN HELP BUT IF IT IS FUEL INJECTED DO NOT HIT THE GAS TO MUCH BECAUSE THEN IT WILL FLOOD
2007-01-17 00:20:43 · answer #3 · answered by DADDY 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
hmm i dont know much about cars but ive had plenty of car troubles in the cold. Get a block heater, use a bottle of heat. i would try turning the ignition on twice and on the second try hit the gas after you have the ignition turned.
2007-01-16 23:58:24 · answer #4 · answered by Ammbless 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
because the oil has frozen.... and it needs time to burn it..
2007-01-16 23:55:43 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋