How to Identify Car Starting Problems
![]() |
By Dave Rongey
Summary: Identifying a problem that may pr our car from starting. |
Identifying A Car Starting Problem |
|
Lets take a look at the electrical components that are needed to make a car start:
The Car Electrical Ignition System The Primary Ignition System The Engine Ignition System The Engine Fuel System Additional Factors that affect Engine Start Up |
EXAMPLE: The Car Electrical System Components of a 1994 Honda Civic.
The Ignition SystemThe ignition system is made up of a few components that make the engine start by igniting the fuel in the engine cylinders. If one of these components is faulty the engine will not start.
* PLEASE NOTE This discussion is limited to this particular car. Your car might be different. Verify the exact wiring for your application requirements.
These tests are best provided by an experienced auto mechanic. Caution should be taken due to moving parts of the engine and the presence of pressurized gas or fuel lines and hoses. Hazard precautions must be taken at all times including personal protection to the eyes and body. Clean rags and a method of fire suppression should be provided.
Wiring Table
Troubleshooting an Engine Starting Problem
Use the Process of Elimination to identify problems.
Key Car Starting Components Identified |
The Primary Ignition System includes: The battery must have a charge in order to make the engine crank to attempt to start. If the battery is good but the starter motor does not crank the engine then the key switch may be faulty. If this primary ignition is working, and the starter is cranking the engine but the engine does not start, then we need to proceed to the next phase of the ignition process. |
The Engine Ignition System includes: This phase of the ignition system is where electricity, which is provided by the battery when the ignition switch is turned, is sent to the distributor system which makes the spark plugs spark. If the spark plugs are getting spark then we need to proceed to the next phase and check the fuel system. |
The Engine Fuel System includes: This phase of the ignition system is where the fuel makes it's way from the gas tank into the engine cylinders. The presence of fuel pressure may be tested up by the engine where the fuel hoses connect to the metal fuel lines with clamps that may be loosened slightly. |
Additional Factors that affect Engine Start Up includes: Most cars have a timing belt or timing chain which is used to connect two major engine assemblies and if it has broken then this will prevent the engine from starting and may cause other problems with the car engine as well. |
I Hope this information about Car Problems Helps You!
|
Recent Testimonials
I think your site offers the the clearest and best electrical information for homeowners I have ever seen on the net.You have given me confidence to do my own projects which I never had before. THANK YOU!
Paul, from Foxboro, Massachusetts
I wish I found this site earlier, it is by far the best electrical related resource I have found on the web.
George, from Scranton, Pennsylvania
I love this site for an office worker that does not know anything about electric wiring.
Bill, from New York City, New York
This site is so much better than the 3 books I just bought, I wish I came here first.
Collin, from Grand Rapids, Michigan
Thank you for answering my question.
I was able to get this done. This site is perfect. I am glad I found it. Please keep it going.
Mike, from Chicago, Illinois
Read more Comments
Leave a Comment