Tech Tip: PT Cruiser cranks, no start after being parked

May 9, 2022

This vehicle was parked for several months and only moved about 50' once a week.

Related To:

Vehicle: 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser, L4-2.4L, VIN B, Automatic Transmission/Transaxle

Mileage: 146,785

Problem: This vehicle was parked for several months and only moved about 50 feet once a week. The owner towed it to the shop because the last time he tried to move it, the engine would crank but not start.

Case Details: The technician connected a scan tool but found no diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) or anti-theft lights. He did find that there was no spark or injector pulse, so he replaced the crankshaft position sensor. Unfortunately, that did not fix the problem, so he called ALLDATA Tech-Assist. The Tech-Assist consultant mentioned that auto shut down (ASD) relay failures are common on PT Cruisers. He sent the technician a wiring diagram to indicate where to check the (B+) voltage and ground supplies to the ignition coil, fuel injectors and PCM. The consultant advised that if those were all in good condition, then the ASD relay was likely the problem.

Confirmed Repair: The technician performed the recommended circuit tests and found all (B+) voltage and grounds were good. After replacing the ASD relay, the engine started right up and ran without any problems. Fixed!

Reprinted with permission from ALLDATA.

About the Author

Richard Diegle | Senior Automotive Editor for ALLDATA

Rich Diegle has been in the automotive industry since 1978. After graduating from a local community college, he began working at a Nissan dealership as a used car technician. Since then, he’s worked as a Nissan and ASE master automotive technician, shop owner, marketing copywriter, automotive editor, public relations manager, instructor, ALLDATA Tech-Assist team manager, and a senior automotive editor.