How to Fix a 2001 Chevy Malibu
Repair Advice for a Chevrolet Malibu that Cranks but Won't Start
This is a 2001 Chevy Malibu that will turn over but has no spark to the spark plugs.
This weekly Q&A session answers your questions about cars and trucks. This week explores a 2001 Chevy Malibu that will not start.
Question: 2001 Chevy Malibu
My name is Melvin and I was wondering if you can help me trouble shoot my Malibu. The problem I have is that the car cranks but won't start. There doesn't seem to be a spark going to the plugs. I had the Control Module under the distributor packs tested and it's working. I have had problems in the past with the anti-theft, but the light would blink. In this case the light is not blinking but the car seems to be doing the same thing as when the anti-theft device was on.
Can the Distributor packs be tested, or would you have any other recommendations for trouble shooting the vehicle? Christmas is right around the corner and I don't have much money, but I would like to give my kids gifts for Christmas instead of sinking money at this time into a repair shop.
Please help, if you can.
Many thanks,
Melvin
Answer:
That vehicle has the Passlock Security System. There is a small pellet on the ignition key that tells the security system that it is the proper key and the security system will allow the engine to start. The ignition switch contains the wiring and electrical switching portion of the column mounted ignition assembly. The ignition switch includes wiring pigtails which connect it to the base of column connector, the Passlock Sensor on the ignition lock cylinder case, and other components.
The wiring for the Passlock Sensor is unaffected by ignition switch position. The key and lock cylinder operates the electrical switch portion when they are rotated within the ignition lock cylinder case. The ignition switch operates the crank relay regardless of the status of the Passlock System.
There are 2 very thin wires inside the ignition switch that actually read the pellet on the key. What often happens is that one, or both, of these wires break. When they break the security system can't read the key and thinks the vehicle is being stolen. The only way to fix this is to replace the ignition switch and perform the security system relearn procedure.
That's all for this week. Feel free to browse the archives for past topics and other resources. And, as always, if you are stuck and need an immediate answer you can always call Vince on the phone.
