* Fuel Delivery Problems:
* Empty or near-empty fuel tank: The most obvious—check your fuel gauge.
* Fuel pump failure: The pump might be failing to deliver fuel to the engine. You might hear a faint whirring sound from the fuel pump in the back seat area when you turn the key to the "on" position (before cranking). Lack of this sound is a strong indicator.
* Clogged fuel filter: A blocked filter restricts fuel flow.
* Bad fuel injector(s): The injectors might be clogged or failing to spray fuel into the cylinders. This is less likely immediately after replacing plugs and wires, but possible.
* Ignition System Issues (despite new parts):
* Distributor cap and rotor (if applicable): Even with new wires, these parts (if your engine has a distributor) can be cracked or worn, preventing a good spark.
* Ignition coil: The coil may not be generating sufficient voltage to create a strong spark.
* Incorrect plug wire routing: It's easy to misplace a plug wire, leading to misfiring or no firing at all. Double-check your routing against a diagram.
* Bad crankshaft position sensor (CKP sensor): This sensor tells the computer the engine's rotational position, crucial for ignition timing. A faulty sensor will prevent starting.
* Other Potential Issues:
* Low battery voltage: A weak battery may crank the engine slowly, preventing it from starting.
* Security system issues: A malfunctioning immobilizer or alarm system could be preventing the engine from starting.
* Computer Problems (PCM/ECU): A failing computer could be preventing the engine from running, although this is less likely to happen suddenly.
Troubleshooting Steps:
1. Check for Spark: With new plugs and wires, a lack of spark is less likely, but verify with a spark tester on each plug wire while someone cranks the engine. Safety first—be careful near moving parts and the battery.
2. Check Fuel Pressure: If you have access to a fuel pressure gauge, check the fuel rail pressure. This will confirm if fuel is reaching the injectors. You'll likely need a specialized tool for this.
3. Listen for the Fuel Pump: As mentioned above, listen for the whirring sound of the fuel pump when the key is turned to the "on" position.
4. Inspect the Distributor (if applicable): Visually inspect the distributor cap and rotor for any cracks or damage.
5. Check the Battery Voltage: Use a multimeter to measure the battery voltage. It should be above 12 volts.
6. Verify Plug Wire Routing: Double-check that each plug wire is correctly connected to the correct spark plug and the distributor cap (if applicable) according to your vehicle's diagram.
If you're not comfortable performing these checks yourself, taking the car to a qualified mechanic is recommended. They have the tools and experience to diagnose the problem quickly and efficiently. Remember to mention you've already replaced the plugs and wires.
