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2017 GX 460 Cranking but No Start - Fuel Smell

0

David L. · rep 0 · May 22, 4:40 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Lexus GX 460 Premium

Hello everyone,

I'm having a major issue with my 2017 Lexus GX 460 Premium, which has about 90,000 miles. This morning, it cranked over strongly but wouldn't start. It just kept cranking and cranking without catching. After a few attempts, I also noticed a distinct smell of raw fuel around the vehicle.

This isn't the first time it's been a bit hesitant to start, but it's never completely failed like this. I'm worried it's a fuel delivery problem. There's no check engine light currently on, but I haven't been able to start it to see if one would appear.

Has anyone experienced a similar 'crank but no start' with a strong fuel smell on their GX 460? What was the cause and solution?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 4:40 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

A 'crank but no start' condition combined with a strong fuel smell on your 2017 Lexus GX 460 points strongly towards a fuel system issue, specifically one where fuel is being delivered but not ignited, or delivered excessively. This needs immediate attention.

Common Causes:

  1. Flooded Engine: The fuel smell suggests the engine might be getting too much fuel, or fuel is not igniting, leading to a flooded condition. This can happen if injectors are leaking or if there's no spark.
  2. No Spark: Even if fuel is present, if there's no spark (due to faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or a crankshaft/camshaft position sensor), the engine won't start. The unburnt fuel would then cause the smell.
  3. Fuel Pump Failure (Intermittent): While you smell fuel, it doesn't guarantee correct pressure. An intermittently failing fuel pump might deliver some fuel but not enough pressure for proper atomization and ignition. Or, it could be over-pressurizing if a regulator is stuck.
  4. Leaking Fuel Injectors: Injectors that are stuck open or leaking can dump too much fuel into the cylinders, leading to flooding and the fuel smell.
  5. Fuel Pressure Regulator Failure: A faulty regulator can cause either too much or too little fuel pressure, both of which can prevent starting.

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. Check for Spark: A mechanic can quickly verify if spark is present at the plugs.
  2. Check Fuel Pressure: This is crucial. A fuel pressure gauge will confirm if the fuel pump is delivering adequate pressure to the fuel rail.
  3. Scan for Codes: Even without a check engine light, a professional scan tool can often pull pending or stored codes related to engine sensors (e.g., P0335 for crankshaft position sensor, P0340 for camshaft position sensor, or fuel system codes like P0172/P0175 for rich conditions).
  4. Inspect for Leaks: Visually inspect the fuel lines and injectors for any obvious leaks.

When to See a Shop:

  • Immediately: Do not attempt to repeatedly crank a flooded engine, as this can damage the catalytic converter. A strong fuel smell also indicates a potential fire hazard. Have your GX 460 towed to a Lexus dealership or a trusted mechanic immediately for professional diagnosis and repair. This is not a DIY fix for safety and complexity reasons.
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