Question 98 Cirrus 2.5L, will no crank if outside air temp is below 60F, it's as if the ignition system is locked out. You turn the key dash lights, radio work, but if heat top of engine(air intake) turn key engine start, car runs as always, will crank and run if engine temp is above 65 F with no problems. Shop did tune-up, replace starter,crank and engine temp sensor, and idle air value. Doing the summer car operated great, but in the cold will crank unless top of engine above 65F, do not understand, no codes just won't crank unless hot, just can not keep taking it the shop and replaceing parts (cost) too high.
AnswerHi Bob,
I assume by 'will not crank' you mean the engine won't catch and run on its own, but the starter will turn the engine over. If not, please explain again.
I assume too that the shop has check for fault codes, but if not I would suggest going to an Autozone parts store for a free code readout. If you find any 4-digit codes, get the numbers, what they mean, what they recommend, and how much. Then let me know and we'll go from there.
Then I would also check for spark when it won't start. Just pull a spark plug cap and insert the tip of an insulated-handle screwdriver in the cap until it touches the internal wire. Then hold the screwdriver and cap 1/4" from the cylinder head while a helper tries the starter while you observe for spark to jump across the gap for a full 5 seconds or not.
I assume that you have the 2.5L V-6 engine. There is a possible mechanical flaw that leans the mixture too much to sustain a catch and idle, namely an ajar EGR valve which hangs up in cold weather. The first thing I would do is check the mechanical function of the egr valve which is located along a pipe that runs from the left exhaust manifold (on the side of the engine facing the front of the car) to the intake manifold area (where the incoming air in the large rubber tube enters the throttle). That valve is metal and has a round fitting with a vacuum hose attached, mounted on the top of the valve, and the round part is attached to the main body of the valve by a sort of saddle. Inside the open saddle you will see a metal rod (with a slot) that connects the round top fitting to to the valve body. That rod is a stem on the valve and it is supposed to go in and out in response to the engine vacuum which varies with RPM and throttle opening (gas pedal position). Take a spray can of WD-40 or other penetrating lubricant and spray the stem where it enters the valve body and then use a regular screwdriver blade tip inserted in the slot to lever the valve in and out to try and free up its motion. Also check all the rubber vacuum hoses associated with the valve and a nearby vacuum solenoid valve. If the valve seems to open (against the action of a spring) and close firmly by the spring action when using the screwdriver blade to facilitate the motion, then you should be able to now start the engine.
Roland
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