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2020 Ram 1500 Won't Start - Cranks but No Fire

0

Mike T. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:39 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Dodge Ram 1500 Big Horn

Hi all,

My 2020 Dodge Ram 1500 Big Horn, with the 5.7L Hemi, suddenly won't start this morning. It cranks strongly and the battery seems fine, but the engine just won't catch or fire up. There was no check engine light on before this happened, and none is currently illuminated.

I've checked the basic fuses, but everything looks okay. I'm wondering if this could be a fuel pump issue, or perhaps a sensor like the crankshaft position sensor? It just cranks and cranks without any sign of ignition.

Any ideas on what to check first for a crank-no-start situation on these trucks would be super helpful!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:39 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

A crank-no-start condition typically points to a lack of one of the three essentials for combustion: fuel, spark, or air (compression). Since it cranks strongly, we can likely rule out a dead battery or starter motor.

Here's how to approach diagnosing your 2020 Ram 1500:

  1. Check for Fuel Pressure:

    • Listen for the fuel pump priming sound (a low hum from the rear of the truck) when you turn the key to the 'ON' position (before cranking). If you don't hear it, the pump might be faulty, or there could be an electrical issue to the pump. A fuel pressure gauge connected to the fuel rail is the definitive test. You should see around 50-60 PSI.

  2. Verify Spark:

    • Remove one spark plug, reattach its coil pack, 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. No spark could indicate issues with the ignition coils, crankshaft position sensor, or camshaft position sensor.

  3. Check for Injector Pulse:

    • This is harder to check without specialized tools (like a noid light), but if you have fuel pressure and spark, but still no start, the injectors might not be firing. This could also be related to the crankshaft or camshaft position sensors, as they tell the ECU when to fire the injectors.

  4. Common Sensor Failures:

    • Crankshaft Position Sensor: A common culprit for a no-start. If this sensor fails, the ECU doesn't know when to fire the spark plugs or injectors. It usually won't throw a code until after multiple failed start attempts.
    • Camshaft Position Sensor: Similar to the crankshaft sensor, a faulty cam sensor can prevent the engine from starting.

When to See a Shop: If you've confirmed you have no fuel pressure, no spark, or suspect a sensor issue after basic checks, it's time to visit a professional. Diagnosing these components often requires specific tools and knowledge to avoid further damage. A shop can accurately test the fuel pump, sensors, and wiring harnesses.

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