What is the most likely cause for a failure of an engine to crank but the starting motor turns?

Answer: The most common source of trouble when the engine cranks but won’t start is the ignition or fuel system. Make sure you got enough fuel pressure and good spark. Also, a faulty sensor (crankshaft position sensor or camshaft sensor on some models or throttle position sensor) may cause this problem as well.

Why does my car not start when I crank the engine?

The crankshaft position (CKP) sensor monitors the position or rotational speed of the crankshaft. If the crankshaft position sensor has failed completely, and isn’t sending a signal to the (ECU) at all, then the computer won’t send any fuel to the injectors. This will leave you unable to start the car.

What is the code for a bad crankshaft position sensor?

A diagnostic scan tool will show a code between P0335 and P0338. The check engine light doesn’t always come on, though, so you could be experiencing any of the above symptoms for some time before you see the warning light. There are a number of different problems that can cause similar symptoms to a crankshaft position sensor problem.

Can a bad ignition pickup cause an engine to stall?

One of the first symptoms of a bad ignition pickup is an engine that stalls and eventually will not restart. Consequently, An old or failing ignition pickup may cut out signal intermittently, which may cause the engine to stall. The engine may suddenly just shut off, almost as if the key had been turned off.

Can a bad crankshaft sensor cause engine to run rough?

You will feel, and maybe hear, this as a brief stutter in the engine. You might feel that the engine runs rough or vibrates at idle, say, when you’re sitting at a red light. This is similar to the above in that it stems from poor spark timing. As seen with rough idling, sometimes crankshaft position sensor problems are worse at low engine speeds.

What to do if your engine cranks but fails to start?

If either the switch or the computer circuit fails; you may have a hard time starting the engine when cold. Also, for a engine cranks but fails to start problem, consider checking the exhaust system.

What to do if your car key won’t start?

However, before you assume that there is a problem with the car’s engine or even the starter, you might consider that the key you use to start your car could be at fault.

What happens if you pull on the ignition key?

Pulling or yanking on the key can cause major damage to the ignition and might make it even harder to remove the key. We’re not calling you dumb (we’d never do that!), but be sure that you’re using the correct key for the correct car, and inspect the key for any damage prior to starting a repair on your car’s ignition.

How can you tell if your car key is at fault?

The only real way of diagnosing a car that won’t start is by having a mechanic actually check all its components, but one sure way of knowing that the key may be at fault is if you don’t hear any sounds when you try to start the car. If the engine grinds but doesn’t turn over, this usually means you have a weak battery.