Fuel Problems - Engine Cranks - Car Won’t Start! Auto Repair Tips

There may be little as frustrating as a car that won’t start.  Even worse is an engine that cranks but STILL won’t start!  Before you head off to the auto repair shop, let’s take a look at what one of the problems could be.  An informed car owner is much better prepared to deal with a mechanic or auto repair shop when you understand where your problems lie.

To start, your engine requires sufficient fuel pressure, an accurately timed spark and normal compression.  If your car or truck engine cranks, but will not start, you are likely having trouble in one of these areas.

NO FUEL – Engine Cranks, No Fuel Getting Through

A faulty or bad fuel pump could be the culprit.  Your fuel pump should engage for a moment when the key is turned on to start the car.  If you do not hear a light buzz sound when the ignition key is turned, fuel is likely not making it to the engine. You should also look under the car to inspect your fuel lines. Fuel lines that are plugged up or pinched off can stop fuel from properly circulating through the system. 

Another culprit could be your fuel pump relay. When the ignition is turned on, the fuel pump relay gets energized by PCM, routing power to the fuel pump.

Wiring could be another issue.  There is a hard to reach connector on top of the fuel tank that should be checked.  Open wiring anywhere within the fuel pump’s wiring circuit can cause a no fuel to your engine issue.

Although it may sound simple, make sure there is actually fuel in the tank.  It is not uncommon for the fuel gauge to malfunction or even stop working entirely.  Contaminated gas, or bad gas, can also cause problems.  If this sort of auto problem arises just after filling your tank, you may want to consider that the gas is the problem.

A clogged or plugged fuel filter is another problem with a fairly simple remedy. Replacing the fuel filter may take care of the problem, but if rust is in your fuel tank, you may also have to get the whole fuel tank cleaned or replaced.

The fuel pressure regulator controls the fuel pressure into the injectors.  This is crucial in starting the car because it maintains the proper balance of air and fuel.  If you have a leaky fuel pressure regulator, you may need to have an auto repair shop or mechanic replace it. 

If you have no power to the fuel injectors at all when the ignition key is turned on, you need to determine why.  The PCM grounds one side of the injector circuit in order to pulse the injectors.  A bad PCM driver circuit, malfunctioning fuel injector relay, no signal reaching the PCM from your cam position sensor or crank position sensor, or even a blown fuse can be to blame.

If none of the above seems to be the problem, you may be experiencing a major vacuum leak. This could be due to an open EGR valve. This can also be caused by a disconnected PCV valve or vacuum hose, either of which may create a significant vacuum leak, allowing a high volume of air to suck into your engine. Vacuum leaks disrupt the air and fuel mixture, causing the engine to idle roughly if it runs or making it hard to start at all. 

Next time we’ll take a look at the other reasons your car or truck may crank but still not start.  As a Columbia, SC auto repair shop owner I want to inform drivers (and potential customers) about what their car troubles are and why they happen.  If you have car questions or need to schedule an auto repair or maintenance appointment in the greater Columbia, SC area, Sanford’s is happy to make you their newest loyal customer!