How to Diagnose an Engine that Turns Over and Cranks But Does Not Start - Crank No Start Diagnosis

Here is a step by step procedure on how you can Diagnose a Crank no start condition. In order for an engine to run, you need a Spark, Fuel, Compression and the ability for the engine to take in Air and push out Combustion Exhaust. In this video I go over how to check all the components and sensors responsible for the ignition system, fuel system and also tips and tricks to narrow down your search.
Please consider supporting this channel: / ratchets
Please Consider Supporting My Channel at : / rnw
Facebook: / ratchets2015
Twitter: / ratchets15
Instagram: / ratchetsandwrenches
Here are some other video's you may find interesting:
No Crank No Start Diagnosis: • How to Diagnose a No C...
How to Bench Test a Starter: • How to Test Your Car's...
How to Restore Headlights: • Ultimate Guide on How ...
Ignition Systems with Distributors: • How an Ignition System...
Modern Distributorless Systems: • How an Ignition System...
How to Test a Crank or Cam Shaft Sensor: • How to Test Crankshaft...
How to Test a Fuel Pump: • How to Properly Test a...
If this video helped you out please don't forget to subscribe, give it a thumbs up or if you are feeling generous leaving a tip by clicking the " i " button on the top right corner of the screen. Thank you very much for your support!
Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of Ratchetsand Wrenches, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. Ratchetsand Wrenches assumes no liability for any property or personal damage that may arise from doing a repair on your vehicle after watching any of my repair video's. Due to factors beyond the control of Ratchetsand Wrenches, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Again Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Ratchetsand Wrenches.

[@pdufusc]

R/W, I'm 69 yrs. old, been through military, state, and private schools. Auto/truck, aircraft, and marine engines. Your knowledge and presentation of the subject was second to none. You have instructors all over the world that have the knowledge, but lack the ability to present the subject matter in a manner that students can understand. If instructing is not your profession, it should be. Very well done. PC

[@myRatchets]

+pdufusc Thanks for your comment, its always great to hear the video's I put out help people and that they find them useful. Sometimes it takes a alot of effort shooting and editing these. Hope you stay tuned for more video's, cheers.

[@shimarlie1]

Yeah I second that. Great video.

[@nomadicconquistador7-5-39]

Not only are you a great mechanic but a great teacher

[@gnomemidnightcompany823]

Very true... thank you

[@fullmindstorm]

This is the best diagnostics video on KZbin.👍

[@myRatchets]

+Twiggy the lizard tyty

[@JAY-xy2ti]

Twiggy the lizard ,

[@mingchawtan9879]

Twiggy the lizard "

[@djr3485]

These videos are excellent because they are thorough and methodical. Too many DIY videos assume a lot of prior knowledge and miss out crucial steps. Keep up the great work!

[@myRatchets]

+DJ R Glad you like them. thanks for watching.

[@gunner678]

Ratchets And Wrenches nice video once again. i wish i was near your location, you would get all my business! I still have the intermittant cold start problem with my Mercedes ML Diesel. when the weather is warm, no problem. annoying! thanks again!

[@gunner678]

Ratchets And Wrenches could it be the ECT Sensor, particularly when the weathervis cold?

[@dondesnoo1771]

all coils ignition require a capacitor for the coil to resonate is it in the ignitor or coil pack it would normally be on neg. point or signal side .?

[@mj-7444]

The most in depth and educational video that I have seen on the subject that is actually geared towards teaching. Thank you 🙏

[@YKTAHI]

This has been one of the most informative, helpful and best produced videos I have seen yet! I have been so frustrated with other peoples' videos because they either don't properly light the area they are trying to show, the audio is poor, they move the camera around so much that you can't see what they're pointing at, or they just don't explain anything thoroughly. I also love they you you recreate and demonstrate the problem. Thank you so much!

[@wyattoneable]

There are a few great diagnostic channels out there but this video was cool because it's troubleshooting a DIY guy like me can do without a $10,000 scope. Thanks!

[@DaveDabomb]

I found this video very informative as my 97 Toyota Corolla would turn over but not crank this morning. Yesterday it was fine, so it was totally unexpected. I will definitely try these diagnostic tips! I supported your channel. Thanks so much for sharing!

[@theodoreholland7781]

Your thorough, logically systematic and your pace is great, thanks friend.

[@ronsencillo2]

Ratchets and Wrenches: I agree with the comments of "pdufusc", you should be instructing. Their are a lot of instructors out there teaching who shouldn't be (to include residential heating and air conditioning servicing). Many of them use precious class time to talk about deer hunting and personal experiences rather than covering material that is suppose to be covered. The world needs more instructors of your caliber!!! Excellent video and excellent job explaining the troubleshooting process!!! Your video helped me zero in on a failing spark plug problem on my 2010 Toyota Corolla this past weekend. Otherwise I would had started with the gas tank (pump) and worked my way forward to the engine. You saved me a ton of time and heartache. Muchisimo Gracias. -Ron

[@shadimh]

thank you for that much of information, I thought it could be two or three causes why an engine won't start but I can see many things I've never thought about.

[@ImKronzr]

Honestly this is the most helpful video for someone who isnt familiar with the ignition system. Thank you

[@icooley7391]

Thank you! Very, very informative. Best I have seen, and I have been looking for months! Subscribed.

[@normanbell6611]

Great explanation, you're the top man, thanks for sharing your knowledge and expertise and the way you simplify it for us

[@williamlinebaugh3419]

You are the aces of mechanics good video and well demostrated

[@slimbrammers6224]

I know it's an old video but it's really good, so much info and diagnostic info, thanks for your efforts

[@jchu14]

Great video! Subscribed and watching more of your videos now!

[@johnnyjohn8073]

Awesome!!! U helped me to discover that I don't need a coil nor a igniter on my 1991 4runner v6. I started first with the coil cus I was sure that was the problem. I was wrong. Then I checked my spark plug cable for piston #1. It sparked very weak & inconsistent. I won't assume it's the distributor cap or rotor because I've barely put together a complete rebuilt 3vze engine. My problem may be in installing my distributor one spline off and causing it to be out of timing. Or my timing belt may be off by 1 tooth/spline on either a camshaft sprocket or the crankshaft sprocket. But this video really helped with my no spark condition. Thanks.

[@cailinanne]

You just saved me so much money! Problem fixed! Thanks love! 🖤🖤

[@nomadicconquistador7-5-39]

wow!!!!! Your videos are some of the most detailed and comprehensive (easy to understand) out of most on KZbin... 2 thumbs up brother.

[@golightlycycling6631]

Thank you for this list of potential root-causes. Troubleshooting a crank/no-start on a 96 Montero SR. Great video.

[@alimalgami1125]

Useful and a great effort!! Thanks a million.

[@seftonplayer32]

How can I give you a million thumbs up? Brilliant presentation!!

[@oftenwrongphong]

Thank you for the education. This old video is the best because it covers less obvious causes of no fuel condition. Also, I've never thought about those other causes of no-pulse. I've been working on cars since the 80's, so it's about damn time I learned how to use a noid light--off to eBay now (since Amazon doesn't allow shipping many auto stuff to California).

[@wladyslawkoss4098]

I am currently having a crank no start issue with my golf. I wish I saw this video sooner so I wouldn’t have to waste money trying to get it to start and still having it not start. Thank you for all the info I received from this video. It is very helpful and will be doing all those tests on my motor. Keep up the good work 👍💪🏻💪🏻

[@kevinhancock4064]

What was it after ? Thanks

[@JuanSanchez-ls4zi]

very well done my brother...great info presented well... Keep it up and i'll keep watching... thanks

[@michaelrodman6646]

thank you very much for taking the time to prepare such a helpful video.

[@JohnDoe-li6pm]

very good video friend. Thank you for making them.

[@johnmckamy6398]

I like the simple way he explains complicated subjects

[@eunicenkoete3390]

U Hh by TV

[@nolimit9225]

Thanks a lot ur proffesionell dude keep making videos! Nice

[@danielfernandez6218]

Excelentes videos amigo Ratchets, son de mucha ayuda. Eres un gran mecanico. 👍 👍

[@YXUHUNTER]

Great video! Great job on explaining things!! Thank you!

[@myRatchets]

+YXUHUNTER np, glad you like it.

[@Coco-lh4fy]

This video really helped me to understand a no start problem. I have a 98 Oldsmobile Intrigue that's been giving me problems with the no start and shuts off while driving it. So thanks for thoroughly showing the steps.

[@kevinhancock4064]

What was your issue ? Thanks

[@kevinhancock4064]

I meant solution lol

[@ke9527]

A ton of info. Thanks for the great vid.

[@paulbarriente7347]

Great video bro. Very helpful.

[@superdadenator]

Perfect timing on this! I'm going through this right now! Fuel injection and distributorless ignitions are little out of my comfort zone but I'm getting there. If this thing had a carburetor and a distributor on it, it would already be running. Thanks for the video!

[@myRatchets]

+Tim Garrett np, hope it helps you out. cheers

[@anniecoleman6815]

Honda accord how how replace mother in door

[@anniecoleman6815]

I991hun replace a motor in door cha how to replace a motor in door

[@anniecoleman6815]

Eev gym at

[@charlesdowns1691]

that would be my choice also.

[@mohammedahmed4721]

Sweet video Thanks for your time!!

[@Spitfireseven]

THIS IS THE BEST VIDEO EVER!!!

[@henrympittman6452]

awesome video. Thank you !

[@eternall808]

Damn! Nice *presentation* .... 👍🏿

[@yamatomusashi1412]

thank you RnW!!!

[@MikeKokoschka]

Can I use the first method with individual coil pack...?

[@JohnSmith-1234]

Good video Sir! You are a good teacher who explains everything very well unlike Matt Shrodinger's Box who explains little and whose videos are just infomercials to try to get subscribers to pay for his pay to watch channel and he wastes our time by not editing but you edit well.

[@bluesunshine420]

I have a test on diagnosing a crank no start thank you this helps a lot

[@cliffperrino3015]

very good instruction and video

[@StevePhillips]

Great video mate there are many here setting timing when engine is running, but this is only one I found that deals with car that engine will not start (which is often the case) and sorts it out. Thank you!

[@charlesdowns1691]

I found others. multimeters+ voltometers are needed

[@StevePhillips]

@@charlesdowns1691 we are finding the same, we never used to bother but now wouldn't be without them. We used ours to check heater plugs on our Chrysler. We saw it was an easy way to test they are not broken, save having to take any out and change them. One of our cylinders is misfiring. That is why we though it could be heater plugs. But all ours is fine. Not sure what else it can be.

[@SuperSniperrrrr]

thanxxxxxx for the great explanation

[@museali1432]

thank you so much your good machanic man

[@mrclean146]

This is the best video I have seen. Can't wait to go through the nonsense on my truck .I'm confident that if I can't get it started. To the yard it goes. Thank you for sharing.

[@wellnesspathforme6236]

Bonus points! Who can name the typical fuses related to the spark plugs so us newer people can make sure we check them all.

[@wilsonmaingrette715]

awesome video well made

[@joelong6085]

Hi thanks for great video .

[@jimmygray4069]

I'm not easily impressed, but your video blew me out of the water. Your knowledge is second to none to start with, but the real strength is in the delivery. Your explanations help people to understand even without knowledge of automobiles. TWO THUMBS UP ! ! !

[@eddiemartinez2193]

awesome video bro keep them coming

[@myRatchets]

+Eddie Martinez Thanks, will do.

[@raybrensike42]

The first thing to look for after finding no spark at a spark plug is to check the spark plug gap. This was an expensive mistake I made years ago. Spent over $1500.00 at a shop once and they didn't fix the problem either. It was the spark plugs. They were very worn.

[@charlesdowns1691]

I can usually check bad plugs with vacume gadge.if needle floats around 2 points = plugs mainly

[@carslover3509]

great information friend

[@myRatchets]

+amjad amj glad you liked it.

[@phuongnguyen-dz8cr]

God Bless you !!

[@alexneil394]

Wow great vid

[@parcha2344]

As always great information, the other situation where I have encountered a no start, no fuel and no spark condition would be with the security system not allowing it to start.

[@PIANOSTYLE100]

parcha2 a mechanic friend of mine rebuilt a late model convert able engine.. they disable on purpose .. to make sure​ their not stolen. they also have multiple backups. Mercedes likes to have their own people working on their vehicles.

[@pby1000]

Can you clear the codes by disconnecting the battery and connecting the negative and positive battery cables together? Someone said it will discharge capacitors in the computer and reset the security codes.

[@VickyGeagan]

@@pby1000 works on the old fords up to 1996.

[@spelunkerd]

That MAF sensor cause for no spark would be a confusing diagnosis if the codes don't help. Nice review.

[@laloca4040]

The same cable the got 12 volt is the one got the signal only 2 cable what cable is the get the signal

[@charlesdowns1691]

true

[@delinquentdesign]

Damn bro youre a good mechanic

[@TheOfficialSoulfire]

thanks man you gave me a couple more things to search for on my 3-day quest of why my engine intermediately keeps stalling

[@VickyGeagan]

check your ignition module.

[@electricaljunky]

Great video. Thats correct. On some older vehicles that the tachometer is hard wired to the coil or part of the ignition system, the tach will or should flicker just a bit when cranking the engine provided everything is working like it should. On some of the new vehicles that is not the case. Also, very good information on the crank sensors. The two wire sensors are magnetic pulse generators and the three wire sensors are hall affect sensors. Some hall affect sensors dont get battery voltage. It might be 5 volts, 8 or 9 volts with the key on and cranking. Keep in mind, some computers need to see the cam and crank sensor in sync with eachother when cranking the engine over to fire the ignition system depending on the vehicle application. Another good way to check for a base engine mechanical/incorrect valve timing problem causing a no start condition is to put your hand over the throttle body air tight and have an assistant crank the engine over. The engine should only suck air in. If at anytime it blows air out of the intake, then you know the engine is out of time. Same thing with the exhaust but it should only blow out when cranking. If at anytime the engine sucks air into the exhaust system while cranking, the engine is out of time. Great video thanks for sharing!

[@PIANOSTYLE100]

Amedee O'Gorman that's a great trick.. hope to never have to use it though.

[@dbarnes420]

Pro my friend.. very pro.

[@Mmyers1177]

Excellent Video on Crank no Start. Other issues could be Anti Theft System triggered and BAD PCM. REMEDY = replace PCM and reset car’s computer by disconnecting the battery for 30 min.....

[@marnelf.delasalas3867]

Hello Sir.. What to do on a Mazda 626 model 1993 that cranks but won't start? No spark coming out on the spark plugs..

[@davidlubin7389]

Great video. Wanted your recommendation on my “crank no start” scenario on an LS1 where I have spark on cylinder #1 only! Cam & Crank position sensors, plugs, wires & coils are all new! I have fuel pressure & compression. Also how can I test the coil pack (4 pin) wires, etc.? Thank you!

[@samuelakindele1505]

Thank you. My Ford Focus 2013 had fuel pump issues, gave me a notification of "Cranking Time Exceeded" as a result of over-cranking and now "Engine Malfunction, Service Now". How do i resolve this?

[@vidurav]

Hi.. thnx for a compreshensive video.. My car is an EFI with only crank shaft position is senced by ECU from Distributor block. ( Only NE+ and NE- and No G). My car suddenly stopped starting. When I started it, first time it was started and gave a dying engine and stopped after RPM up down. I tested for sparks using a spare spark plug it gives sparks. I tested fuel pump and pressure - pump was working and fuel pressure seems sufficient since when I loosen the nut feul came out with a pressure. I checked for injectors - Heard ticking sound when injectors work. Could you please tell me what else I should do/

[@waynedunne4838]

Hi i have a 1999 vw lupo which is cranking but isnt starting, on the fuel rail there isnt a nut or anything, just the main feed in a hose which did flush through fuel but only when you try and crank it ( which is good news for the fuel side ) however i did the spark test all the way to the ignition coil and there was no spark, im just hoping i did the tests right, is it right with the fuel though?

[@mostlymoparih5682]

Great idea using jumper cables to ground the spark plug..

[@sukhjitjosen1341]

Can you do a video on fuel injector system

[@Goldheadful]

Great video. Sometimes the only way to find why a car won't start is the process of elimination which is what you did very well. I have a crazy problem and I'am about ready to take it to a pro. The problem is that the car will start and then die. I first changed the fuel filter and then the fuel pump, but no help. I did find that if I continued to try to start it several times it would stay running with the check engine light on. If I let it idle for about 5 to 10 minutes the check engine light goes out and it runs great. I can drive it to the store shut it off go shopping come out and it starts right up. In fact I can drive it all day like that, but when I shut it off for the night it's the same thing no start the next day. This has happened every day for about a week. I've tried different things like cleaning the start control valve.( The valve that opens to allow air to pass around the throttle plate until the car starts), I also cleaned the throttle bore. I took it to oreillys to have the fault codes checked, but the computer would not communicate with the OBD 2 tester. I would appreceite any help. Thanks

[@am6066]

Great video! Do you have any experience with changing the camshaft sensors on a Hyundai 2007 Santa Fe 2.7L? I have a crank / no start issue w/ zero rpm indication. I cannot remove the Bank 1 camshaft sensor (seems the engineers at Hyundai designed the water lines that go to the cooling assembly to encroach on ).

[@cailinanne]

Turned out to be the timing belt btw 🖤

[@hllywd964]

Nice job..I've watched your body repair videos and you do a great job of explaining the process...can you make a video of repairing an aluminum rim with a gouge and curb rash?

[@myRatchets]

+hllywd964 It's on the list, just have to find the time to get to it. I'll do my best. Cheers

[@hllywd964]

Thanks bro!

[@mileymorales4156]

So my 2003 Lincoln Ls cranks but won't start so do I just need new spark plugs and coils?🤔 I've put a new fuel pump, and a new fuel pump relay.

[@jacquemerilus7791]

Wow you awesome.

[@coollasice4175]

Great tips.

[@myRatchets]

+Cooll Asice ty

[@phillipboyd3607]

Ratchets And Wrenches

[@badguy66626]

i have an eclipse 2002 gs 4 cylinder with a code p0300, and at first it was making noise on the left side of the engine (clicking noise) and i noticed that coolant was leaking from the lower hose (i think) which is green liquid. i filled the gas tank and the next day the clicking noise was louder, the car died while driving. the car now cranks but won't start. the rpm does not move when i crank it either. im desperate and i need help thank you!!

[@theodoreholland7781]

Sh*t I typed that only to later read and see most everyone feels the same..good on you sir.

[@Toastedandtoasted]

I have an intermittent crank no start. Replaced cam and oil pressure sensors both had coded. Still no start three days then it started. No codes. Now it won't start again and the MAP coded. I'm suspect of now having three separate sensors code in one week, which all coded individually in succession. Any ideas?

[@Studio1Alpha]

Great Review. No Drama!

[@anthonyskorner4511]

Where you been? I want to see more vids from you.

[@bradleycain2409]

I put a new remanufactured engine in and no spark. Checked all the way to ICM. Have 3 wire going to the plug for the ICM. Yellow 12 volts, black 4 volts and Green/white 12 volts key on postion, no pulse when though when i crank. Brand new ICM. Any suggestions?

[@truemordecai2996]

If i take the plugs out to do a compression test and air comes out of the other spark plug holes does that mean i have worn head gaskets?

[@catchthisSK]

I need your help. I've replaced my 2.3 liter with a JDM 2.3. Everything has been replaced and I'm not getting it to turn over. It cranks but not firing off. Any help please!!

[@jamesdiehl8690]

How do you check the relays in your truck. Fuses you can pull out and look to see if the wire inside is broken. Relays are little metal cubes in the fuse relay box. You have to get a mechanic to check those with test equipment. My vehicle is at home at won't start. Mechanics are at shops and dealerships. If I can find out what's wrong I won't have to call them.

[@jamescc2010]

Can it be something more serious like engine, or may be alarm / immobilizer ?

[@dsmusic1904]

Can you tell me where the crankshaft position sensor is on a 1991 Geo Prizm 1.6? Thanks.

[@gregscrap]

Have 1988 s10 have half the fuse box no power fuses are good lights won't work or fuel relay any help would be appreciated

[@tyangelataylor7546]

hello, I have a 2005 Chevy impala my gas hand went off first then a couple days later I was on my way home from work and my car shut down... now my car will crank but want start what do you thinks the problem is

[@fabianolalde6719]

Nice to find something similarly to my 2004 Tacoma has coil and cable I has spark on ignition coil blue spark and the cable orange color and with spark plug conected. Nothing. On middle of spark plug any idea bad coils and wires???

[@francisco5434]

I'm no mechanic but you helped me understand the whole function of the engine in one comprehensive video. I feel like you should be issuing graduation degrees. That was a fantastic teaching video.

[@mplvppgc7390]

I have this on my mazdaspeed 3 but cranking is slower please help!! Replaced the starter and new battery

[@empien9371]

Hi R/W, i had a leaking valve cover gasket on a Hyundai getz. I replaced the gasket and it still leaks. What could still be causing this? The Cover itself is plastic. Could it be warped?

[@hnoobsho]

you even have the same car im trying to diagnose lol. sweet.

[@clarkrobertson7097]

Hey I conducted the test to see if the signal wire makes the test light flash for the 5s-fe. I have a 3s-fe, not sure it makes a difference. Anyways instead of a flash it just is a constant light on, no blinking.

[@TechSpark40]

I have a mazda lx 2003 2.0 , I have electrical power on wires but no pressure gas and no spark, check engine is not turning on. the car cranks but don't turn on I think that the crank sensor is dead what you think? the ECU IS GOOD DOUBLE CHECK.

[@gfflow3703]

I have toyota mr2 turbo I can't find fire?