Jim Grant's Tech Tips
'91
Chevy Cavalier, No Start Parts Drain
Q:
I own a’91 Chevy Cavalier that I’ve had no major
problems with. In August I was driving and it just gave out. My nephew
thought something was draining the battery. He jump started it to get
it running. The next morning when I went to start it, nothing! No lights
came on and the motor would not turn over. I brought it to a garage and
they put in a fuel pressure regulator and fuel injector, that didn’t
help. Next an alternator and new battery with no results. Then I got charged
for a reman ECM unit & PROM control unit. I’m still without my
car! I’m a senior citizen with a disabled son. I need transportation
desperately as I make frequent visits to the doctors and cannot afford
cabs. So please, if you have any clue to what may be wrong, please advise
me. P.S. My nephew says there was no need to replace the parts. What they
need to do is find the source that is draining the battery.
A:
It is time to call a wrecker and find a new mechanic. From what you’re
saying there is a concern. I find it difficult to understand why it would
take two months to diagnose and repair a no start problem. But what is
more concerning is that your nephew could start the car by boosting the
battery. If a vehicle starts and runs with a boost of the battery then
why was the fuel pressure regulator and injector replaced? Then to go
from a battery and alternator to a computer with new software? Your nephew
is right! Before any parts are replaced the cause for the battery drain
should be found. Then parts needed to correctly repair the vehicle can
be installed. Much of what has been installed in your vehicle does not
correlate to the complaint. I would strongly suggest you have your vehicle
towed to another repair facility! Also, keep track of the money/parts
you’ve paid. You may be asking for consideration once the correct
diagnosis is found.
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