1998 SL1 cold start problems

[matt_77]

I have a 1998 Saturn SL1, whenever the car is left outside in below freezing temps the car will crank but not start. I have already replaced the ECTS, Crankshaft position sensor, ignition coils, Ignition control module, spark plugs and wires. Still car just cranks and doesn't start. After several attempts sounds like the car backfires from the engine. If I put the car in the garage it starts and runs just fine once the whole car has warmed up. I have also used ISO heat and fuel injector cleaner. And the car appears to have plenty of fuel pressure. Can anybody help me?

[saturnspeed_12]

well it sounds like a bad battery.

[matt_77]

It's definatley not the battery, like I said the vehicle turns over just fine, just won't start when it is cold.

[saturnspeed_12]

well it could be a bad fuel pump or faulty injectors. also have you checked for spark when it doesnt start? if no spark check for injector pulse, if nothing from injector you have a bad crank position sensor. you need to check for those two things when it wont start. if both seem to work, then its most likely something with fuel.

also where did you buy the ects from and is it brass?

[matt_77]

I got the ECTS from NAPA, I've already checked for spark, that's why I replaced the coils and ignition control module. Now it has spark all the time. Checked the injectors last night, all are working.

I spoke with a mechanic last night and he had a saturn with the same problem. It turned out to be worn intake valves. I will check those out tonight. If that turns out to be the problem I will repost and let everyone know. Thanks for your advise saturnspeed_12.

Originally Posted by saturnspeed_12

well it could be a bad fuel pump or faulty injectors. also have you checked for spark when it doesnt start? if no spark check for injector pulse, if nothing from injector you have a bad crank position sensor. you need to check for those two things when it wont start. if both seem to work, then its most likely something with fuel.

also where did you buy the ects from and is it brass?

[mouse1]

Originally Posted by matt_77

I have a 1998 Saturn SL1, whenever the car is left outside in below freezing temps the car will crank but not start. I have already replaced the ECTS, Crankshaft position sensor, ignition coils, Ignition control module, spark plugs and wires. Still car just cranks and doesn't start. After several attempts sounds like the car backfires from the engine. If I put the car in the garage it starts and runs just fine once the whole car has warmed up. I have also used ISO heat and fuel injector cleaner. And the car appears to have plenty of fuel pressure. Can anybody help me?

I have a 96 we had to plug it, starts fine even at -30 thats the only thing i can sugest, car doesnt seem to really like winter.

[peppermrj]

Originally Posted by matt_77

I got the ECTS from NAPA, I've already checked for spark, that's why I replaced the coils and ignition control module. Now it has spark all the time. Checked the injectors last night, all are working.

I spoke with a mechanic last night and he had a saturn with the same problem. It turned out to be worn intake valves. I will check those out tonight. If that turns out to be the problem I will repost and let everyone know. Thanks for your advise saturnspeed_12.

How many miles.
When you replaced the ects did you check the connector? They can become corroded if the old sensor cracked.
Backfiring thru the throttle body is a tell tale sign of a bad intake valve. It can also be from a lean condition. Pull a plug after trying to start it for a bit. Is it fuel soaked, carbon covered, or dry? Should give a clue. If it is dry check the throttle position sensor. It could be telling the PCM the pedal is to the floor and to go into clear flood mode.

Let us know.