1996 Saturn SL

Reader Question: I have a 1996 Saturn SL and it just died out. I am in New York and it has been cold here. I had to flush out the heater core to get heat and that is working fine but the next 2 days later the car died out and it will not start. I sprayed start fluid in and it tries to start but will not.

Also, I can hear a click from the fuse box when I turn the key on. I guess it is the relay. My question to you is how can I tell if the relay is bad? Is there a way to test the fuel pump before I have to replace it?

Thank You.

Ken

Hey there Ken,

I would check to see if you have spark at the spark plugs FIRST. If the engine will not start with starting fluid, you probably do not have spark.

Ignition coils, distributor, crankshaft, and camshaft position sensors are the first place to check for spark in this situation.

I am not sure what relay you are hearing, you might want to find out what it controls by either calling the dealership parts department or asking your mechanic to look at it for you.

Blessings,
Austin Davis