Hyundai Repair: Elantra 97 electric problem, starter solenoid, clutch pedal


Question
There was an alternator spark on my friend's  elantra 97. All light on the car went out but no fuse went out nor blown. We changed the alternator and we rebuilt the electric system. The starter run because we can make it run by pushing the relay but when we turn the key on, we hear the fuel pump but no start. We have no idea where it can come from... maybe the ecm is dead or something? Have any idea?

Answer
The starter isn't controlled by the ECM.  Presuming you have a U.S. model Elantra, the starter relay coil receives a signal through the ignition switch and the the transaxle range switch (automatic only), and grounds through the clutch pedal switch (manual only).  Check to see whether you have power and ground to the starter solenoid relay when attempting to start the vehicle.  If not, diagnose the appropriate portion of the circuit.  If so, the relay is defective.

If you don't have a U.S. spec vehicle, the starter may be controlled by the anti-theft module.  

It sounds like the voltage regulator on your alternator began producing too much voltage.  When I've seen cars on which this occurred, there were typically many electrical and electronic components damaged, including nearly every computer.  Since your fuel pump runs, it's a good bet that the ECM is probably okay.