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2016 ILX 2.4L Cranks But Won't Start - No Fire

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Heather Y. · rep 0 · May 22, 4:54 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2016 Acura ILX 2.4L

My 2016 Acura ILX 2.4L, with about 75,000 miles, suddenly won't start. It cranks strongly, the battery seems fine, but the engine just won't catch or fire up. It was running perfectly fine yesterday, and this morning, nothing.

I checked the fuses under the hood and they all look good. I don't hear the fuel pump priming when I turn the key to the 'ON' position, which makes me suspect it might be a fuel delivery issue. Could it be the fuel pump, or something else like the immobilizer system? The security light isn't blinking rapidly, so I don't think it's the immobilizer.

Any common culprits for a crank-no-start condition on these ILX models?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 4:54 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A crank-no-start condition on your 2016 Acura ILX 2.4L indicates a problem with one of the three essential elements for combustion: spark, fuel, or air. Since it cranks strongly, we can generally rule out a completely dead battery or starter motor.

Here's how to approach diagnosing this:

  1. Fuel System Check:
    • Listen for Fuel Pump: As you noted, listen for the fuel pump priming sound (a low hum from the rear of the car) when you turn the ignition to 'ON' (without cranking). If you don't hear it, check the fuel pump fuse and relay. You can try swapping the fuel pump relay with another identical relay (e.g., horn relay) to test it.
    • Fuel Pressure: If the pump runs, you'll need a fuel pressure gauge to confirm adequate fuel pressure at the fuel rail. Low pressure means the pump is weak or there's a restriction.
  2. Spark Check:
    • Remove one spark plug, reconnect its ignition coil, and ground the plug against a metal part of the engine. Have someone crank the engine briefly while you observe for a strong, blue spark. If no spark, investigate ignition coils, crankshaft position sensor, or camshaft position sensor.
  3. Air/Compression Check:
    • While less common for a sudden no-start, ensure the air intake isn't completely blocked. A compression test would be a last resort if fuel and spark are confirmed good.
  4. Immobilizer System:
    • Although you mentioned the security light isn't blinking rapidly, it's worth double-checking. If the immobilizer system isn't recognizing the key, it will prevent the engine from starting (often by cutting fuel or spark). Try a spare key if you have one.
  5. Main Relay: The main relay powers both the ECU and the fuel pump. A faulty main relay can cause a no-start condition.

When to See a Shop:

  • If you've confirmed no fuel pressure and the fuel pump fuse/relay are good, indicating a potentially failed fuel pump.
  • If there's no spark at any cylinder, even after checking coils and basic sensors.
  • If you suspect an immobilizer issue, as these often require dealer-level diagnostics to reprogram or diagnose.
  • If you're uncomfortable performing the diagnostic steps involving fuel or electrical components.
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