If system voltage is too low the computer won't send any current to
the solenoid. So the lights stay bright instead of suddenly getting dim
and you getting that click-click-click sound. And now that you have
added details that sounds even more likely that the battery is done.
Engine cranks normally,
but it does not fire: You turn the key to start and hear the starter motor crank the engine, but
when you release the key, the cranking stops and
there is silence. This means that the battery and starting motor are
working properly, but the engine is not firing. If you continue
cranking the engine over in this way, the battery will eventually run down
and will need to be recharged, but the battery and starter are not the cause
of your problem.There are a number of causes for this type of no-start
condition, the most common being that you are simply out of gas.
Assuming that you have fuel in the tank, you will need to go through a
series of tests to determine what is causing the problem. The testing procedure requires that you use
specialized equipment in order to determine the problem area. There
are three main tests in order to get you pointed in the right direction.
You will need to test for
Spark,
Fuel and
Compression, in that order.
As soon as you see a problem in one of those areas, that is where you will
need to concentrate your efforts.Spark:An easy way to test for spark is with an inexpensive spark tester.
This is a device that is readily available at most auto supply stores.
You use it by simply holding it next to a spark plug wire. If you see
the neon lamp flashing while someone cranks the engine, then you have spark
and should move on to checking for fuel. If there is no spark, or a
very weak spark, you will have to do a series of methodical tests that
vary depending on the type of vehicle. You will need a repair manual for
your car in order to get the correct diagnostic procedures. A good
source for on-line repair information at a reasonable price is
Alldata-DIY.Fuel:First step here is to listen for the fuel pump running inside
the gas tank. When you turn the key to run, you should easily hear
the pump
come on, run for a few seconds to build fuel pressure, then turn off.
If you do not hear it, it could mean that the fuel pump or circuitry is
bad. (Fuel pump failure is a common problem on modern cars.) Fuel injected cars are very sensitive to proper fuel
pressure. If the pressure is off, even by a few pounds, it will cause
noticeable performance problems, or a no-start condition.
To check for proper fuel pressure, you will need a fuel pressure gauge that is suitable for
your type of system. A fuel injected engine (found on just about
every vehicle less than 20 years old) produces very high
fuel pressures and requires a fuel pressure gauge that reads up to 100
pounds per square inch. This type of gauge has a threaded
connector that must match the pressure tap on your fuel rail. Since you are
working with a highly combustible fluid which can be quite dangerous if
you do not know what you are doing, you should leave this step to a pro.
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