GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provide an overview of each diagnostic category.

Circuit/System Description

This Engine Cranks but Does Not Run is an organized approach to identify a condition which causes the engine to crank but not start. This diagnostic directs the technician to the appropriate system diagnosis.

This diagnostic assumes the system voltage levels are adequate for starter motor operation. Refer to Battery Inspection/Test , and Engine Cranks Slowly . Fuel level and fuel quality should be determined for correct diagnosis.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Engine Controls Schematics

Connector End View Reference

    •  Powertrain Control Module Connector End Views
    •  Engine Controls Connector End Views
    •  Electrical Center Identification Views

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs
    •  Starting System Description and Operation

DTC Type Reference

Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions

Scan Tool Reference

    •  Scan Tool Data List
    •  Scan Tool Data Definitions
    •  Scan Tool Output Controls

Special Tools Required

    • CH-48027 Digital Pressure Gage
    • J 26792 HEI Spark Tester

Circuit/System Verification

Attempt to start the engine. The engine should start and run.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Crank the engine for up to 30 seconds.
  2. Observe the vehicle DTC information with a scan tool.
  3. If any of the following DTCs are set, refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle to diagnose those DTCs: P0016, P0201-P0206, P0335, P0336, P0351-P0353, P0601, P0602, P0604, P0606, P0685, P1516, P2610
  4. Ignition ON, verify the scan tool injector circuit status parameters indicate Incomplete.
  5. If the parameters do not indicate Incomplete, refer to DTC P0201, P0202, P0203, P0204, P0205, or P0206 .
  6. Observe the engine speed parameter while cranking the engine.
  7. If engine RPM is not indicated, refer to Crankshaft Position Sensor System Diagnosis .
  8. Install a J 26792 .
  9. Crank the engine for 15 seconds. Spark should be observed from the J 26792 .
  10. If spark is not observed refer to Electronic Ignition (EI) System Diagnosis .
  11. With the ignition ON and the engine OFF, test the fuses that are supplied by the powertrain relay for voltage. The test lamp should illuminate at each test point for the following fuses:
  12. • Emission Fuse
    • Ignition 1 Fuse
    If the test lamp does not illuminate on at least one side of each fuse, refer to DTC P0685 .

    Important: Additional DTCs may set when using the fuel pump output control.

  13. Command the fuel pump ON and OFF. Fuel pump should energize when commanded ON and De-energize when commanded OFF.
  14. If the fuel pump does not respond refer to Fuel Pump Electrical Circuit Diagnosis .
  15. Turn OFF the ignition.
  16. Install the CH-48027 Digital Pressure Gage. Turn ON the ignition and command the fuel pump ON while observing the CH-48027 . The fuel pressure should be between 380-410 kPa (55-60 psi).
  17. If the fuel pressure is not within 380-410 kPa (55-60 psi) refer to Fuel System Diagnosis .
  18. Inspect for the following conditions:
  19. • Compare the actual engine coolant temperature to the ECT parameter.
    • Air filter and air intake system for restrictions and obstructions
    • Test the fuel for contamination. Refer to Alcohol/Contaminants-in-Fuel Diagnosis .
    •  Inspect the spark plug and spark plug wires. Refer to Spark Plug Inspection .
    • Test the exhaust system for restrictions. Refer to Restricted Exhaust .

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.