These are the top ten reasons I see vehicles come to Ace Automotive for no-start problems.
1. Electric fuel pump failure / fuel filter restriction
In-tank electric fuel pump failures are one of the most common problems that I see. This is primarily due to vehicle owners not maintaining the proper schedule. Fuel filters can be expensive and can be replaced at any time. It costs $100.00 to replace the fuel pump several times per year. However, in certain vehicles like late 90s Jeep Gran Cherokees, it can cost nearly $800.00 to replace the fuel pump. How many times would you like to do that?
Another reason for premature fuel pump failure can be allowing fuel levels to drop below 1/4 tank for prolonged periods of time or running out completely of fuel. The electric fuel pump will run dry, almost immediately ruining the pump.
Vortec Design GM engine 4.3L and 5.7L with CPI fuel injection system. The CPI unit fails in many ways. The plastic tubes leak, “poppets” get plugged, and the fuel pressure regulator leaks.
2. Timing Belt Failure / Timing belt tensioner failure
Timing belts are made to last approximately. The timing belt is designed to last approximately 40,000-60,000 miles. Failure to change the timing belt before it “breaks” can cause expensive engine damage in certain vehicles like Acura, Nissan and Honda. If the recommended interval is exceeded, have your timing belt replaced. Failure of the timing belt tensioner is quite common.
3. Distributor Failure / Including Ignition control modules
Mid 80s Gm4 cyl. V-6s
All GMs have Electronic distributor 4 cylinder, V-6, and V-8 1988-1998)
1980s/90s Ford TFI ignition (grey Module bolted to outside distributor).
Ford Pick-up assembly inside the distributor
I have witnessed many distributor failures in Hondas, especially when bearings fail.
4. ECM/PCM Failure (computer).
5. Primarily used on mid-80s GM products with 2.8L engine GM engines. “W” is in the 8th position.
6. Alternators
The CS130D/CS130D is the most problematic alternator I’ve seen. This was on mid-80s GMs for CS130D and later GMs for CS130D. Later GMs have the CS130D.
7. Cam Sensors / Crank Sensors
Chrysler late model vehicles with 3.3L engines Caravan, Voyager
Mid 80s GMs 2.0L crank sensor 2.5 L crank sensors
Crank sensors for GM V-6s in the mid 80s and early 90s
90s Jeeps 4.0L engines cam/ crank sensors
Mitsubishi Galant 4 Cyl Engines crank sensors (failure due balance belt failure, broken belt cuts sensor wires, and damages sensor).
8. Batteries/ Cables /Clamps
Many corroded and neglected batteries find their way into our facility. Batteries don’t last forever! Many battery failures are caused by poor maintenance practices, which can lead to more problems.
9. Electrical Problems
Ford ignition switches. In escorts during the early 1990s, the electrical portion will separate inside. Some ford ignition switches can cause fires!
10. Miscellaneous
Inaccurate fuel gauges can cause vehicles to run out of fuel
Lack of oil causes engine lock-ups
Catalytic converters (pluggable exhaust systems)
The engine cannot be turned over if the flywheel is damaged or missing teeth
Fuel injectors that are not working properly
However, I have never seen or heard of cars not starting or running properly due to gasoline brand!