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Intermittent No-Start on 2022 MDX - Cranks but won't catch

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Christine P. · rep 0 · May 22, 4:56 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Acura MDX A-Spec

I'm having a really frustrating issue with my 2022 Acura MDX A-Spec. About once a week, it just won't start. It cranks strongly, the battery seems fine (all lights and accessories work), but the engine just won't fire up and catch. It's not a weak crank at all.

If I wait about 10-15 minutes, or sometimes try it again later in the day, it will eventually start up perfectly fine as if nothing was wrong. There's no Check Engine Light on, and I haven't noticed any other performance issues when it does run. This is really concerning for a relatively new vehicle.

Any ideas what could be causing this intermittent no-start? Could it be a fuel delivery issue, or something with the immobilizer system?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 4:56 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

An intermittent no-start condition where the engine cranks but doesn't catch, especially without a Check Engine Light, can be particularly challenging to diagnose. Since your 2022 Acura MDX eventually starts, it points to a component that is intermittently failing or experiencing a temporary glitch. The key elements for an engine to start are fuel, spark, and compression.

Here are the most likely culprits for your symptoms:

  1. Fuel Delivery Issues:
    • Fuel Pump Relay: A faulty fuel pump relay can intermittently prevent the fuel pump from activating. When it cools down or is reset, it might work again.
    • Fuel Pump: While less common on a newer vehicle, an intermittently failing fuel pump could be the cause. Listen for the faint hum of the fuel pump priming when you turn the ignition to the 'ON' position (before cranking).
    • Fuel Pressure Sensor: A faulty sensor could be sending incorrect readings, preventing proper fuel delivery.
  2. Ignition System Issues:
    • Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) or Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP): These sensors tell the engine computer when to fire the spark plugs and inject fuel. If one is intermittently failing, the computer won't know when to trigger spark or fuel, leading to a crank-no-start. Since it's intermittent, it might not always set a code.
  3. Immobilizer System:
    • Key Fob/Immobilizer Malfunction: If the vehicle's immobilizer system isn't recognizing the key fob, it will prevent the engine from starting, even if it cranks. The security light on the dash might flash rapidly during the no-start condition. Try using a different key fob if you have one.
  4. Engine Control Module (ECM) Glitch: While rare, an intermittent issue with the ECM itself could cause starting problems. This is usually a last resort diagnosis.

When to See a Shop:

Because this issue is intermittent and doesn't always set a code, it can be difficult to diagnose without specialized tools. A dealership or an experienced independent shop will have advanced diagnostic equipment to monitor live data during a no-start event, check fuel pressure, and test sensor signals. It's best to get this addressed soon, as being stranded unexpectedly is a major inconvenience. Mention that it cranks strongly but doesn't fire, and that it eventually starts.

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