1998 LeSabre no start no codes

[jimvee]

1998 Buick LeSabre, 3800 eng. No start, original problem began with check eng light, now cranks well but no start. Checked codes with scanner, no codes present. Code reader does activate and seems to do a scan. Is ECM bad? would a defective coil leave a code?

[ProTech]

If the vehicle cranks, I'd bet the ECM is ok since it controls the starter relay, and I've never seen a whole bunch of problems with the computers the LeSabre's.

I would probably start off by doing some basic checks, since you know it cranks ok. Two basics you should get out of the way first would be to check for spark and to check fuel pressure. You can either remove a spark plug wire from the coil or plug itself and check spark there while someone cranks the car over. If you have spark, you can assume that you have a good ignition module and crank sensor.

A fuel pressure check can be taken right off the fuel rail if you have a gauge. It should be at least 48-55psi with the key on and hold steady. If it less than 45psi or the pressure drops off right away, you probably have a bad fuel pump. Also, check the fuel pressure regulator for leaks too if the pressure drops off, but that won't usually cause a no start condition.

You might also want to just verify there are no trouble codes set by doing a scan one more time. You don't want to overlook anything. If both the spark and fuel check out, then you could be looking at a wiring problem, a sensor that is shorted out, or lastly and least likely a bad ECM.

[smurr44]

I have a 1998 regal, My wife got in after allowing it to warm up for 15 mins and noticed the battery light was on and when she put it in gear all warning lights came on and she had very little acceleration. Could this be the mass air flow sensor or any ideas on what it could possibly be? Thanks

[ProTech]

The mass airflow sensor isn't going to cause the battery light to come on, but it can cause acceleration problems. I would first check your charging system, though, as there is probably something wrong in that area to cause the battery light to show up on the dash all the time. You could have a faulty alternator, battery or other issue.

I'd recommend getting that problem solved before you attempt any repairs for the hesitation, and that may even fix everything.

[gail]

the car is a 1957 buick century 364 cu. inch engine the problem is loosing its prime when starting but after it starts it runs fine but if it sets for a while you have to pump the peddle many times what causes this?

[carriedi]

how many pumps is a lot?

does it have a manual choke? What kind of carburetor?

When you pump the gas pedal, watch to see how much fuel shoots down the carb, if your accelerator pump is worn it may not give you a good steady stream of fuel to prime your intake.

older cars should take 3 to 5 pumps all the way to the floor to prime the carb. then put the choke 1/2 to 3/4 closed and start the car. (cold only) Engine warm, it should just start up.