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99 Avalon, engine turns, but won't fire, need help!


BD-Nebr.
05-27-2008, 10:37 PM
I recently bought a used 99 avalon. It drove fine for a couple of days, then it wouldn't start. The engine turns over...but won't fire. I have been advised to check my fuel relay, that's new and works fine...I also checked my fuel pump...and that works fine. I was lead to believe it was a fuel problem by trying to start the car with starting fluid. but now, i am at a loss for what the problem could be. i have taken it to a shop, where i trust the mechanic. however, he is also at a loss. I have only had the car for a couple of weeks, and it only ran for 3 days...I'm naive when it comes to vehicles and need help! any ideas?

Brian R.
05-28-2008, 12:29 AM
Check your ECM for stored codes with a scanner.

Check the spark plugs for fouling and appearance - particularly the hard-to-get-to ones.

Check the resistance of the spark plug wires.

Check the compression of all the cylinders.

Check for leaks in the intake system

RIP
05-28-2008, 01:13 PM
Is it safe to assume the mechanic made sure the timing belt was intact? If it's broken the engine will crank all day - the bottom half at least. Just won't start.

BD-Nebr.
06-01-2008, 02:32 PM
After my "new" car had spent two weeks in the shop, the mechanic came to a bright idea. We had suspicions before about the anti-theft system and that is what the problem was. The key that we were using to try and start the car, had a bad memory chip in it therefore, it was denied by the security system. After buying and trying all new parts, a new key was all that was needed. So, now I have a large bill to pay the mechanic, and although I am relieved it was a small fix, I do feel stupid. Thank you for all of your help and suggestions! Hopefully now my car won't need new parts for quite some time!

Thanks again,
Brittan

Brian R.
06-01-2008, 10:46 PM
That was a real deal. Not many mechanics would try replacing a key. That guy deserves a lot of credit.

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