starting problem in 01 intrigue

[fewlio]

Hi,
Im new to the group and have had a 2001 Olds Intrigue 3.5L since it was new. I have changed the oil and filter regularly and have used Mobil 1 Synthetic for the life of the car. It currently has 73,000 miles on it.

It has started giving me problems when starting up (cold or warm). Sometimes it will start up fine but other times the engine will crank away. If I try a few times it will start, and the Service Engine Soon light stays on for the duration of the trip. I do not notice any problems while the car is running.

I suspect that I need to replace the spark plugs, but I thought you guys may have more insight into the problem. Also - dumb question - I was looking at the engine yesterday and have no idea where the spark plugs are, I removed the silver decorative engine cover thinking they would be under there but I still dont see them. Any help would be appreciated.

Thank you.

[Bill V]

Sounds like a typical 3.5 with a crank sensor error.

Have the codes checked to be sure...

[GMMerlin]

First you need to retrieve the codes...this may help in diagnosing why your car wont start..
The spark plugs are located in the valve cover under the module assembly

[fewlio]

Thanks for the input. I brought it into the shop to have the code read, and it turns out it was the crank sensor, so I just had it replaced and the car appears to be working ok again.

Thanks.