My 2000 pontiac sunfire won't start, when you turn the key to start it it makes no noise that would indicate that it is even trying to start but all the dash lights come on and I have power.
So when I turn the key in the ignition, it doesn't crank or make any noise
indicating that it is even trying to start. The dash lights all come on so I
know I have power. Very frustrating as I just put 2300.00 into getting this
car safetied. We have already done exhaust from motor to rear, all brakes,
drums, rotors, O2 sensor, spark plugs and wires. The reason we changed
the spark plugs and wires is because it was running rich, burning lots of
fuel, blowing black smoke, and bucking a little bit. After we changed those it
made no difference. In fact the car was bucking worse on the ride home (i
took it out for a drive after we changed them) Brought the car home parked
it and now it won't start at all. This was supposed to be a second vehicle for
our family of 6 as my daughter is getting ready to write her G1. I'm
devastated. I only make a very average income and it seems any extra
money I have I'm dumping into this vehicle just to get it up to good running
standard. Please someone help!
Check the starter relay - swap it with one of the similar rated relays as a test. If relay is good get battery checked, it may have enough voltage to power some lights, but not enough cranking amps to turn starter. If battery good check all battery cables and terminals, a voltage drop test may be needed to ensure starter is getting full power. If all those good you'll have to test ignition circuit. If all the above is good you're left with either a bad starter or starter solenoid.
