Symptom Definition

Engine cranks okay, but does not start for a long time. Engine eventually starts and may run okay or die immediately.

Possible Causes & Corrections:

• Check for restricted exhaust system.
• Check ignition system for bare or shorted wires, incorrect pick-up coil resistance, loose ignition coil connections or moisture in distributor cap (if equipped).
• Using Spark Tester (ST-125), check for adequate spark output.
• Check ignition control circuit for short to ground.
• Remove spark plugs. Check for wet/fouled spark plugs, cracks, improper gap, burned electrodes or heavy carbon deposits.
• Check for shorts by misting plug wires with water.
• Check fuel pump relay. Connect test light between fuel pump test terminal and ground. Turn ignition on. Test light should illuminate for 2 seconds. If test light does not illuminate, check fuel pump relay. See appropriate SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTING article. For location of fuel pump test connector, see the appropriate SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTING article below.
• SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS - 2.2L
• SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS - 3.1L
• SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS - 3.8L
• SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS - 4.3L
• SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS - 5.0L
• SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS - 5.7L
• SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS - 7.4L
• Check for poor fuel quality or water-contaminated fuel.
• Check for correct fuel pressure at all speeds or engine RPM.
• Check for a faulty in-tank fuel pump check valve. A faulty check valve allows fuel in lines to drain back to tank after engine is stopped.
• Check EGR operation.
• Ensure ECT sensor circuit resistance or ECT sensor resistance is not too high. See SENSOR RANGE CHARTS article in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE section or DTC 15 chart in appropriate TESTS W/CODES article below.
• Ensure TP sensor does not stick or bind. A sticking throttle shaft or binding linkage may cause a high TP sensor voltage (open throttle indication). PCM will not control idle if high voltage is sensed. TP sensor voltage should be .85 volt with throttle closed.
• Check Idle Air Control (IAC) system. Check for foreign material in IAC bore. See DTC 35 chart in appropriate TESTS W/CODES article below.
• TESTS W/CODES - 2.2L
• TESTS W/CODES - 3.1L
• TESTS W/CODES - 3.8L
• TESTS W/CODES - 4.3L
• TESTS W/CODES - 5.0L
• TESTS W/CODES - 5.7L
• Ensure correct PROM is installed in vehicle. Check with dealer for latest application information.