What to Do When Your Car Has No Compression and Won’t Start

The car likely needs to be serviced due to the lack of compression, as this is preventing it from starting.

Car Has No Compression and Won’t Start

If your car has no compression and won’t start, it may be due to a variety of underlying issues. In general, compression is related to the engine cylinders, which generate power by combusting fuel. When compression is nonexistent or too low, the sputter of air burning fuel won’t reach the spark plugs and the car won’t start. Causes for loss or insufficient compression may include worn piston rings, burned valves, cracked cylinder head, and leaking head gasket among others. If a mechanic diagnoses such an issue in your vehicle, you’ll likely require repairs or a replacement part to get back on the road.

Car Has No Compression and Won’t Start

When a car has no compression and won’t start, it can be a mechanical or electrical issue. To diagnose the issue, one should first check the battery. This includes checking the voltage and all cable connections to ensure that they are secure. If the battery is in good condition, then its time to move on to inspecting ignition components such as the distributor cap and rotor. Additionally, one should test fuel system components such as fuel pump pressure, and check fuel injector performance.

Another important step in diagnosing why a car wont start is to inspect spark plugs and wires. This includes visually inspecting the plugs and wires for any signs of wear or damage, as well as performing a resistor and insulation test to ensure that the wiring is up to par. If all of these steps have been taken, then other issues may be causing the lack of compression in an engine.

In conclusion, when diagnosing no compression in an engine that wont start, one should first check the battery and all its connections. Additionally, ignition components such as distributor cap and rotor must be inspected as well as fuel system components like fuel pump pressure. Spark plug wires should also be inspected for any signs of damage or wear before moving on to other possible causes for lack of compression in an engine.

Examine Timing Components

The first step when a car has no compression and won’t start is to examine the timing components. This includes the timing belt or chain, camshaft, and crankshaft. The belt should be checked for any signs of wear or damage, and tension should be adjusted if necessary. The camshaft and crankshaft should be positioned correctly by using a timing light or other tool to ensure they are in the correct position. If any of these components are not in proper working order, it will cause the engine to misfire or not start altogether.

Analyze PCV Valve System

The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve system should also be analyzed when diagnosing a car with no compression and won’t start. The PCV valve is responsible for controlling pressure within the crankcase and preventing oil from getting into the intake manifold. It is important to verify that it is operating correctly by checking for any signs of corrosion or debris that may be blocking its operation. Additionally, all hoses and grommets connected to the valve cover should be inspected for any signs of leaks or damage that could affect its performance.

Evaluate Air Intake System

The air intake system also needs to be evaluated when a car has no compression and won’t start. This includes checking the condition of the air filter, as dirty filters can reduce airflow which can prevent an engine from starting properly. It is also important to scan the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) for any errors related to sensors in order to diagnose any potential issues with how much air is being taken into the engine.

Observe Ignition Coil Condition

Lastly, it is important to observe the condition of the ignition coil when a car has no compression and won’t start. The coil helps regulate spark in order for an engine to fire properly, so it must be able to generate enough voltage in order for an engine to start up. Any signs of corrosion on the coil should be addressed by replacing it if needed as this could prevent an engine from starting properly even if other components are functioning correctly.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What could cause my car to have no compression and not start?
A: A lack of compression in the engine can be caused by several mechanical or electrical issues. These issues can include a faulty battery, worn-out ignition components, or problems with the fuel system components. Additionally, there might be an issue with spark plugs and wires, timing components, PCV valve system, air intake system or ignition coil.

Q: How do I check the battery?
A: To check the battery, you should first do a voltage check to make sure it is getting power. Then you should inspect the connections for any corrosion or damage.

Q: What should I check for ignition components?
A: When checking ignition components you should inspect the distributor cap and rotor for any signs of wear and tear. You should also perform a spark test on the starter to make sure it is functioning properly.

Q: How can I assess fuel system components?
A: To assess fuel system components you can do a pressure test on the fuel pump as well as a performance check on the fuel injectors. This will help determine if any repairs are needed.

Q: How can I inspect spark plugs and wires?
A: When inspecting spark plugs and wires you should visually check them for any signs of corrosion or damage. You should also do a resistance and insulation test to ensure they are functioning properly.

The most likely cause of a car not starting with no compression is a failed engine or cylinder. This can be due to worn out internal components, leaking valves, or a broken timing belt. The best course of action is to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to determine the exact cause and recommend repairs.