Okay, so I've been going through it trying to figure out the problem with my 8. I've changed my spark plugs, then wires, then coils. In that process maybe trying to get it to turn over while it was running bad I think something else may have went bad, I was thinking starter, because I've always had a slow start. And I know the unupgraded starters from 04-05, so I ordered a starter but now since it does turn over, so I'm thinking making fuel pump. Is it possible for a bad fuel pump to cause the car to crank and crank and crank and throw a blinking CEL before the car is even started? With the key just in the on position. Been trying to figure this out a while now. Something went bad in the process of fixing a problem which is why its been so hard for me to pinpoint the problem.

 

The fuel pump usually doesn't cause a problem unless the pump itself overheats. It usually only over heats when the engine is sucking down lots of fuel, and this doesn't occur at startup.

Check the engine block ground, validate that your ignition is hooked up securely and correctly. Pull the plugs and crank it to see if there is fuel in the chamber, you might just be flooded.

 

RIWWP, if the ESS sensor has become unplugged doesn't that stop fuel flow? Isn't that what you unplug while doing a compression test?

 

Yes, if the ESS is unplugged it will stop fuel and spark, since the ECU won't know when to fire each, it just won't fire anything.

 

Will it fire if the plugs are out?

 

Think about that very carefully

 

You said pull the plugs and crank it. It didn't make sense to me lol so I was a little confused, so crank it without the plugs? It wont turn over or nothing but will empty the fuel? Is that right?

 

"turn over" means the motor cranks - so yes, when you crank it, it will "turn over".

It won't 'fire' but that's not what has you confused, right?

 

You replied back: "Will it fire if the plugs are out?"

The plugs are what's firing, so I made the response I did.


Yes, it will crank without the plugs in.

 

Lol okay man fair enough, I'll try that out.

 

what would you think if the car doesn't start and the RPMs dont even respond at all.

 

Jay, I recommend starting with the basics. Confirm that you have spark with a coil tester. Confirm that you have fuel by cranking and pulling the plugs to see if they are wet with fuel.

If you have no spark but good fuel, check the grounding connections, replace ignition if needed.
If you have no fuel but good spark, then you have a fuel pump problem.
If you are missing both, then you have an e-shaft sensor problem.
If you have both, you are flooded, too slow starter speed (due to battery or starter), or failing compression.

Find out what you HAVE first.

 

Check the fuses as well...if you popped one that could cause either the ign or fuel system to not work