GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Checks

Action

DEFINITION: Engine cranks OK, but does not start for a long time. Does eventually run, or may start but immediately dies.

Preliminary

Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Engine Controls .

Sensor/System

A variety of sensor or physical conditions may result in a hard start condition without setting a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). In order to determine if any of these conditions exist, perform the following actions:

    • Compare scan tool data to a known good vehicle or refer to Scan Tool Data List .
    • Inspect for a restricted exhaust. Refer to Restricted Exhaust in Engine Exhaust.

Fuel System

A variety of fuel system conditions may result in a hard start condition without setting a DTC. In order to determine if any of these conditions exist, perform the following actions:

    • Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis .

Ignition System

A variety of ignition system conditions may result in a hard start condition without setting a DTC. In order to determine if any of these conditions exist. Refer to Electronic Ignition (EI) System Diagnosis .

Engine Mechanical

A variety of engine mechanical conditions may result in a hard start condition without setting a DTC. In order to determine if any of these conditions exist. Refer to Engine Compression Test in Engine Mechanical-3.8L.

If incorrect compression is detected, inspect the following items:

    • Carbon build-up
    • Cam timing
    • Oil fouling
    • Incorrect parts
    • Bent pushrods, refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical-3.8L
    • Rocker arms, refer to Valve Rocker Arm and Push Rod Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical-3.8L
    • Valve springs, refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical-3.8L
    • Cam lobes
    • Intake/exhaust manifold flashing
    • Head gaskets, refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical-3.8L