Q: Won't start. Just cranks, catches, and dies

asked by on October 13, 2016

When trying to start my car it will crank and crank, finally catch and immediately die. It started ok in the morning but when I went to start it after work that happened. I replaced the batter because the next day the current one was completely dead, but that did not solve the issue. Also none of the electronics seem to be working (radio, power locks, power windows, ect).

Hello there, a few different faults will cause your 2001 Pontiac Grand Am to start and then die. Replacing the battery was a good start, as it can cause this type of issues. Other possible faults include the MAF sensor, fuel pump, fuel filter, battery cable, ignition switch, wiring harness fault or the ECM. A qualified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, will be able to diagnose your car’s starting problem and perform any repairs required to get your vehicle starting normally again.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Can't pass smog check due to misfire
If your engine is misfiring it will not pass a smog check. The engine needs to be in good running condition in order to pass. I suggest having an expert mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, inspect why your engine...
Shifting won't go into gear - 1973 Chevrolet C20
Check fluid level in the transmission. Did you correctly engage the front pump with the torque convertor, and filled the torque convertor with fluid before installing it? Let the truck idle 15 minutes or so, and check for Drive/Reverse after...
What would you consider as a tune up?
A car is a mechanical device that wears out in a predictable pattern. Therefore, tune-ups are NOT determined by personal predilection. If someone tells you, "In my opinion, a tune up consists of....", run for the exits! In other words,...
Every morning or when I use my truck i put it on drive I press on the gas and the engine will rev up but the truck goes very slow
Hello. I have a couple of ideas. You mentioned it happens in the morning and this indicates the truck is cold. When the seals in a transmission get old and hard, they allow ATF to leak internally and the transmission...
Air conditioner blows hot air on the left side and cold air on the right side
A common issue across many makes and models with dual AC in the temperature blend door actuator failing and causing drastic temperature differences between the driver and passengers sides. Have the HVAC system inspected by an experienced professional to find...
My car broke down and won't move.
Hi there. There are several things that could cause your vehicle to not move, however, with the loud clinking noise the transmission has something that broke in it. Is seems that either a bearing inside the transmission failed and has...
P2711 Unexpected mechanical gear disengagement.
Has the DSG transmission Megatronics unit been replaced recently ? If it has been, then the transmission/clutch adaptation was not performed by the installer. If the Megatronics unit has not been replaced, you can try the clutch adaptation: Turn the...
Hi, I have an 06 mazda 3 and it will start and idle just fine but when I press the accelerator down, it won't even rev up.
Hi there. There could be a fuel volume issue (meaning the amount of fuel is not adequate) or the MAF (mass air flow) sensor is dirty or not working. Check the fuel pressure and make sure that there is at...
Need brake pads on infiniti...will it be infinit pads?
Hello, and thank you for writing in. Simply put, no, the pads will not necessarily be infinity brand. While there are many manufactures of brake pads that will make replacements for your vehicle, you can get brand name replacements from...

Related articles

How Long Do Wiring Harnesses Last?
Car wiring harnesses connect all the different electrical systems and components in a vehicle. Wiring harnesses can last the lifetime of the vehicle.
The Top 8 Things That Will Drain Your Car Battery
Your car battery could keep dying from a variety of reasons such as age, a bad alternator, human error, and more.
How Long Does a Low Water Sensor Last?
The The heat that is produced by your engine can be quite harmful if not cooled down. There are a variety of systems in your car that are designed to make sure that the internal temperature of your engine stays...