car won't start

Hi there. Please bare with me. I am really dumb when it comes to car. I went to leave tonight and my car would not start. It would turn over, just won't start. Radio and power windows working just fine. My brother said I need new spark plugs. He said they look real old and that's most likely my problem. I had a new alternator put in a month and half ago. When I had that replaced, the auto shop tested my battery and said that and the starter were fine. So I'm thinking it's not the starter (besides, it's turning over..just won't fully start). I had a new fuel pump put in last summer. New serprentine belt put in 6 months ago (not for sure exactly what that does but might be helpful for you to know). Hopefully I'll get this fixed soon but no one is able to take a look at it for awhile so I was wondering if someone could give me an idea so I can be "prepared" for what I'm getting ready to get into. Thanks for your help. P.S. It's a 1992 Pontiac Grand Prix 3.1 engine size.

A no start condition could be one of literally 1000 things. Basics such as fuel and spark are first to check. If the car started ok before this episode, the problem is not the plugs. The chances of all 6 plugs fail;ing in unison are slim. The car may need plugs but that probably is not the first suspect. All fuses should be checked first, then relays. Turn the key on and listen for the fuel pump. It should turn on for a couple of seconds (hum under rear of car) to prime the system. Test for fuel pressure at rail. If good, then check for spark. It will require a run of basic diagnostics to narrow down to a system (spark or fuel) and eliminate all possibilites. Spark and fuel are the 2 main things an engine needs to start. Then you or your mechanic can narrow it further. It could be as simple as a fuse, or as complex as a fried ignition switch or even the engine computer.

go to a wrecker and replace the wires to your ignigtion module along with the module itsself i have the same problem im dealing with it now

Actually, I've seen many times on GM DIS waste spark system engines where worn plugs will suddenly cause a no-start issue. Start with tune-up parts (plugs, wires, pcv valve, fuel filter). It's regular maintenance, and you won't be throwing money away. If that doesn't help, you need to determine if you have spark and fuel. You can try spraying wd-40 in the throttle body and see if it starts then dies. If it does, then you have spark, and aren't getting fuel. If it still does nothing, a common problem with these cars is the crank position sensor. When it fails, the spark plugs won't fire, and the car won't start. A little basic diagnosis will point you in the right direction so you don't get hosed at a garage, when you tow it there and say, "It won't start, fix it". Never give a garage, no matter how much you trust them, a "blank check" like that.

go to a wrecker and replace the wires to your ignigtion module along with the module itsself i have the same problem im dealing with it now

Please check the date of the thread before resurrecting. This one is about 1 1/2 years old. If you are having an issue to address to members of the forum then you may start a new thread. Thread closed.


POSTING IN CLOSED OR OUTDATED THREADS:
If a thread has been closed, there is probably a logical reason for it. If you feel that the reason(s) for closure of the original thread are unjustified or wish further clarification feel free to contact any member of the moderating team. However, do not start a new thread about another closed thread.

Please avoid posting or voting in outdated threads. It merely clutters up the message board and makes it more difficult for fellow members to sort through the vast amount of information contained on the boards. If you have new and important information to add regarding a past discussion, feel free to start a new thread and if need be, add a link to the original thread.