2022 Durango GT Plus - Cranks No Start Issue

ClearTheCode admin answer: A 'cranks no start' condition on your 2022 Dodge Durango GT Plus indicates that the engine is turning over, but it's not getting the necessary spark, fuel, or air (or correct timing) to ignite. Since you don't hear the fuel pump priming, that's a significant clue.

Here's a breakdown of common causes and diagnostic steps:

1. Fuel System (Most Likely Suspect):

   • Fuel Pump: As you noted, not hearing the prime is a strong indicator. Test for fuel pressure at the fuel rail if possible. A faulty fuel pump, relay, or fuse (even if it looks good, sometimes they fail internally) can prevent fuel delivery.
   • Fuel Pump Relay: Try swapping the fuel pump relay with a known good relay (e.g., from the horn or another non-critical system) to see if it resolves the issue.
   • Clogged Fuel Filter: While less common on newer vehicles as they often have lifetime filters, a severely clogged filter could restrict flow.

2. Ignition System:

   • Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP): This sensor tells the engine computer when to fire the spark plugs and injectors. A failing CKP sensor is a very common cause of a cranks-no-start condition, as the PCM doesn't know when to initiate the ignition sequence. This often doesn't throw a CEL until after multiple failed start attempts.
   • Spark Plugs/Coil Packs: While less likely to cause a complete no-start across all cylinders simultaneously, it's worth noting.

3. Security System (Immobilizer):

   • Key Fob/Immobilizer: Ensure your key fob battery is good and that the vehicle isn't in an anti-theft lockout mode. Try a different key if you have one. Look for a security light on the dash.

4. Engine Air/Timing:

   • Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) / Throttle Body: While usually causing rough running, a severely faulty MAF or blocked throttle body could prevent starting.
   • Timing Chain/Belt: A broken or jumped timing chain/belt would prevent the engine from starting, but this is a catastrophic failure and usually accompanied by other noises or symptoms.

When to See a Shop: If you've checked the fuel pump relay and confirmed strong cranking but no start, especially if you can't confirm fuel pressure, it's time for professional diagnosis. A shop can properly test fuel pressure, check for spark, and use a diagnostic scanner to read live data from sensors like the crankshaft position sensor, even without a CEL.