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Reply To: 02 malibu won’t start without disconnecting spark plugs

October 14, 2024 at 1:55 pm #835609
GM Fan
Participant

I would start by checking fuel pressure. Usually if it will only start by cycling the key, it’s because of low fuel pressure. And turning it on and off builds up that pressure until it starts. If fuel pressure is low on priming, then it is probably the pump. Also make sure your injectors aren’t leaking down when priming. If your engine is on the verge of getting hydrolocked (too much fuel in cylinders from leaking injectors) then it will not turn over or worse case scenario do some serious internal damage (starter is strong enough to bend a rod). By removing the plugs you are relieving the pressure in the flooded cylinders so it can turn over. (If this is the case then you will see a lot of fuel squirt out from the spark plug hole.)

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