| Subject: | car won't start |
| Question: | l989 plymouth colt, 1.5 FI engine, 78,000 miles. car turns over fine but won't start. it seems to be getting spark but no fuel. i cured a stalling problem a few months ago by replacing the fuel filter. i plan on again replacing the fuel filter but if that doesn't work and before i replace an expensive fuel pump i need to know where else i may need to look. fuse, relay etc. thanks, jim also if you suggest some hard to locate part, please let me know where it is. |
| Answer: | Jim, I would definately check the fuel pump. Inspect the wires and harness around the pump to see if any are fraid or rusted out. If you have a voltmeter, check to make sure you're actually getting 12 volts at the pump. If your voltage is too low, or not existant, you may have a blown main relay. If you plan on doing the work yourself, I'd highly recommend getting a service manual for your car if you don't already have one. They're only about $15 and they'll walk you through step-by-step on any servicing job. Even if you take your car to a mechanic, you can check their work and have an idea of what they talking about when they give you an estimate. Other than a clogged filter or bad pump, I'd check the fuel pressure regulator (on the fuel rail; typically connected to the fuel filter) and the fuel injectors (also on the fuel rail). Also check your air intake hoses and air filter. If no air is getting to your engine, then your car won't send any fuel to it either. Take all precautions if you replace your fuel pump. You typically don't need to drain your fuel tank, but be sure there's no pressure in your fuel lines. Good luck! |