99 3.8 no start
 

Trying to get the firebird revived. Car suddenly wont start. When it cranks has no fuel pressure, spark or tach movement. Plugged it in no codes. Security goes off like normal. Replaced CPS. No change. Anyone have any ideas?
Thanks
Jamie

Re: 99 3.8 no start
 

Jamie check to see if your fuel pump works first. You unplug the connector just underneath the car behind the rear seats. Apply 12 volts (you can jumper from your battery). If the pump works, its a good chance its your ECU. The ECU is responsible for starting the fuel pump, sending a spark and sending the tach signal (also could be why you have no codes). Your security is controlled by the Body Control Module and not the ECU.

Re: 99 3.8 no start
 

Thanks for the reply Kallcium. I should have mentioned I have already ruled out the fuel pump. I can cheat and get fuel pressure. So its fine. Any thoughts on Ignition Control Module? Parts store says they can check it. If the PCM was bad would scan tool even connect?
Jamie

Re: 99 3.8 no start
 

PCM can be bad and still connect. I have seen it before. The ignition control module could also be the issue for the spark and tach, but it shouldn't have anything to do with the fuel pressure unless you have another issue such as a fuel pump relay or a fuse (the fuel pump is supposed to prime when you turn the key to run, before you start it).

It is probably worth it to have it checked out, however I tryied once and when the auto parts store saw the ignition module for the 3.8, they realized that they cant check it out.

The ICM is about $120, you could just but it first, installed (keep it clean) and if it didn't fix it, return it to the store.

Re: 99 3.8 no start
 

Can the PCM just be replaced on this one? Isnt there a reprogramming process needed?
Jamie

Re: 99 3.8 no start
 

From what I understand, you should be able to just swap one out with another of the same year, engine and transmission. You may even be able to use a few different years if they are similar enough. I am not sure if you can use a manual on an auto, but you might without reprogramming.

If you get one from the same year and engine/tranny, the only thing to reprogram is the vin number which you really don't need to do.