2000 Chevy Cavalier z24 Will Not Start

Check the timing. Could have either jumped time when you shut it off, or the chain/belt broke when it back-lashed.

Another idea - do you happen to have a security feature that requires a certain type of chip on the Key? See if that is still effective, or the receiver is maybe kaput. For instance, a '97 Mustang has that feature - I had a copy made of the key in case I locked it inside. The copy, without the chip, will open the door and trunk locks, but will not allow me to start the car (no chip) - it just spins forever, much like you describe.

Ken

If you have fuel, fire, and air, at the right time, it has to run. Unless of course you have too much fuel, as in flooded. Also, you didn't sound real confident about having spark.

I had a 2001 Hyundai Tiburon that would crank but not start. I too went the route of fuel all the way to to a new pump. with no luck. I found a really good link to a mechanic that suggested that if there is no spark the CPS or Crank shaft Position Sensor might be my problem. They make a 10 dollar spark checker you just put on the end of a spark plug wire to check for spark. There was no spark. So I went after the CPS, I found it and took it off and noticed it was 1. Dirty with oil buildup because 2. It was cracked on one side. So I just cleaned it and re seated it and bang the car started. I rushed down to the auto parts store and got a new one and haven't had a problem since. Good luck.

I had the same problem in a Mercedes, and did quite a bit of research. The crankshaft position sensor was what most people thought. I wondered if it was a problem in the car alarm, so the dealer disconnected it but no joy. It turned out to be a defective relay. Hope this info helps.

A couple more things to check. Is the spark a bright pink or is it thin and blue. Also, did you check both coils. That vehicle also has and ignition module that controls the coils. Another thing to check would be the Crank and Camshaft sensors which one or both may have gone bad.

Hello.The diagnostics you describe are vague in saying that it looks like a spark is getting through.For diagnostics to have meaning there is a need for precision.Looks like does not work.You must verify that you have spark.On a 2.4 quad DOHC this can be difficult due to the lack of plug wires but still possible.Remove the top cover with the Ignition Module and coils and boots.Unplug the ignition Module. Remove the spark plugs and check cylinders for compression using a compression gauge.Compression should be in the range of 120 psi.(give or take 10% for wear) per cylinder when cranked through 8 revolutions.If not, diagnostics ( removal of front engine covers) is required to check timing chain and tensioners. If compression is OK timing of the crankshaft and valve train is OK.Borrow 4 spark plug wires and install between coils and spark plugs.Ground the spark plugs bottom electrodes using alligator clips to known good grounds away from any fuel source.Plug in the ignition module and have an assistant crank the engine while you watch the spark plugs for spark.No spark means diagnostics for the primary and secondary spark systems.Good luck.

Hay Grandpaw couldn't he pull #1 spark plug and turn engine until he sees the Top Dead Center mark on the crank pulley show up on the timing mark. Or do they still provide that capability. I'm a little rusty on the newer engines.

Never mind Grandpaw I answered my own question. If the timing chain jumped a tooth or two you would still get top dead center because the timing mark is tied to the piston not the cam. Daa!