Steps to do when car does not start

[shet]

Here are the steps to do when the car does not start from this month's (Feb 2009) Popular Mechanics magazine

1) Turn the key. Do the dash lights come on?
If not, then wiggle battery connections. (Keeping radio loud saves trip to dash)
If dim lights, then check battery voltage(12.6V expected). Charge it if reqd.

2) Do lights go out when key turned to START?
If yes, then check battery clamps and cables

3) Do you hear buzzing or clicking when you start?
If yes, then low voltage to solenoid. Check if battery is charged.

4) Does the engine crank?
If not, then check is the security system activated?
If yes, then check if there is a spark at plug (Use spark-gap tester)
If it cranks slowly, check battery voltage while cranking. Replace battery if less than 9V

5) If no spark plug, then check ignition system as per manual

6) Does fuel pump run for a few secs after key turned on (listen to it)?
If not, then check fuel pump fuse, relay and wiring (PITA)

7) Is there fuel pressure? (Use Schrader valve or fuel pressure guage)
If not sufficient, then check pinch off return line to tank.
Is there pressure now?
If yes, then check crimped or blocked fuel line. If its fine, replace fuel pump
If not, then replace fuel pressure regulator

8) Is injector firing? (Use noid light or voltmeter)

9) Check engine-computer-power fuse.

Strangely nothing is mentioned about checking the alternator

[Mike Gerber]

"4) Does the engine crank?
If not, then check if there is a spark at plug (Use sprak-gap tester)"

This comment does not make sense. If the engine does not crank, what would checking for spark accomplish, and how would you do it? Are you sure this step was coppied correctly?

Mike

[shet]

Originally Posted by Mike Gerber

"4) Does the engine crank?
If not, then check if there is a spark at plug (Use sprak-gap tester)"

This comment does not make sense. If the engine does not crank, what would checking for spark accomplish, and how would you do it? Are you sure this step was coppied correctly?

Mike

You are right. I will correct it in the original post as follows: If not cranking, then check is the security system activated? If cranking, then check if there is a spark at plug (Use spark-gap tester)

[djb2]

None of this is Camry specific.

There is much more that can be done on a Camry to narrow down the likely problem.