For 1990-2009 cars

Inspection/Test | Action
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DEFINITION: Engine cranks OK, but does not start for a long time. Does eventually run, or may start but immediately dies.
Preliminary |

• | Refer to Important Preliminary Inspections Before Starting in Symptoms - Engine Controls .

• | Inspect the powertrain control module (PCM) grounds for being clean, tight, and in the proper locations. Refer to Power and Grounding Component Views in Wiring Systems and Engine Controls Schematics .

• | Search for bulletins.

• | Verify that the driver is using the correct starting procedure as described in the owners manual.

Sensor/System |

• | Inspect for an engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor that has shifted in value . Refer to Temperature Versus Resistance .

• | Test for proper operation of the manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor . Refer to DTC P0105 .

• | Test for proper operation of the throttle position (TP) sensor. Refer to DTC P0105 .

• | Test for proper operation of the intake air control (IAC) valve . Refer to Idle Air Control (IAC) System Diagnosis .

Fuel System |

• | Verify there is adequate fuel.

• | Inspect the fuel pump operation. Refer to Fuel Pump Electrical Circuit Diagnosis .

• | A faulty in-tank fuel pump check valve allows the fuel in the lines to drain back to the tank after the engine stops. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis .

• | Test the fuel injectors. Refer to Fuel Injector Balance Test with Special Tool , Fuel Injector Balance Test with Tech 2 , or Fuel Injector Solenoid Coil Test .

• | Inspect for incorrect fuel pressure. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis .

• | Inspect for a restricted fuel filter. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis .

• | Inspect for a contaminated fuel condition. Refer to Alcohol/Contaminants-in-Fuel Diagnosis .

Ignition System |

• | In order to properly inspect the spark plugs or to correct a condition, refer to the following procedures:

- | Ignition System Specifications

- | Spark Plug Inspection

- | Spark Plug Replacement

• | Remove spark plugs and inspect for the following conditions:

- | Correct heat range

- | Wet plugs

- | Cracks

- | Wear

- | Improper gap

- | Burned electrodes

- | Heavy deposits

- | Verify that the spark plugs are of the correct type.

• | Inspect for proper ignition voltage output with the J 26792 (SA9199Z) Spark Tester .

• | An improper spark plug gap will cause a driveability condition. Gap the spark plugs using a wire gage gap tool.

• | Determine the cause of the fouling before replacing the spark plugs.

• | Inspect for damaged or misaligned spark plug boots.

• | Inspect the electronic ignition (EI ) module for proper ground connection.

Engine Mechanical | Inspect for the following conditions:

• | Excessive oil in combustion chamber or leaking valve seals--Refer to Oil Consumption Diagnosis in Engine Mechanical.

• | Low cylinder compression--Refer to Engine Compression Test in Engine Mechanical.

• | Improper valve timing.

• | Combustion chambers for excessive carbon buildup--Clean the chambers using top engine cleaner. Follow the instructions on the can.

• | Incorrect basic engine parts--Inspect the following components:

- | The camshaft--Refer to Camshaft Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical.

- | The cylinder heads--Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical.

- | The pistons, etc.--Refer to Piston, Connecting Rod, and Bearing Installation in Engine Mechanical.

Additional |

• | Inspect for a restricted exhaust. Refer to Restricted Exhaust in Engine Exhaust.

• | Inspect the air intake ducts for being collapsed, damaged, loose, improperly installed, or leaking.