Engine Cranks But Will Not Start - keywords 3.5 LX9 no

This PI was updated to include the VIN list that was omitted. Please discard PIP3399C.

The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.

Some customers may comment that the engine will crank but will not start.

Follow the steps below to diagnose and determine the appropriate repair action.

1. Open the hood and remove the engine oil fill cap. Observe through the opening if the rocker arm(s) or valve(s) are moving when the engine is cranking. If movement is observed, review the "crank-no-start" diagnostics found in SI. If no movement is observed, proceed to step 2.
2. Check the VIN from the vehicle and confirm that it was built AFTER the VIN's listed in chart below.

If the vehicle was built AFTER the VIN's listed in the chart below, then proceed to step # 3 in this document.

If the vehicle was built ON or BEFORE the VIN's listed, then the engine must be replaced. Contact PQC to obtain authorization for replacing the engine before proceeding.

3. If the rocker arms or valves did NOT move and the vehicle's VIN number is AFTER those listed, then contact Jim Kelly at (586) 492-5612. He will supply you with additional needed information. Do NOT call him if the vehicle's VIN number is ON or BEFORE those listed or if the balancer or balancer bolt has been disturbed in any way.

Important: If the rocker arms or valves did not move in step 1, it is very important that the balancer and balancer bolt NOT be disturbed in any way.

Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed.