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2017 Impreza Won't Start - Cranks but No Ignition

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Chris P. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:13 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Sport

Hey everyone,

My 2017 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Sport just decided not to start this morning. It cranks strong, the battery seems fine (lights are bright, radio works), but it just won't turn over and ignite. It's like it's not getting fuel or spark. I tried cycling the key a few times, but no luck.

I filled up the tank yesterday, so it's not out of gas. No Check Engine Light was on before this happened, and none is on now. Any ideas on what I should check first? Could it be a fuel pump, spark plugs, or something else entirely? It has about 85,000 miles on it.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:13 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A 'cranks but no start' condition on your 2017 Subaru Impreza typically points to an issue with one of the three essentials for engine combustion: fuel, spark, or compression. Since it's cranking strong, we can likely rule out a completely dead battery or starter motor.

  1. Check for Fuel Delivery:
    • Listen for Fuel Pump: Turn the key to the 'ON' position (without cranking) and listen for a faint hum from the rear of the car for a couple of seconds. This is the fuel pump priming. If you don't hear it, the pump might be faulty or not receiving power.
    • Fuel Pressure: A more definitive test involves checking fuel pressure at the fuel rail, which requires a specialized gauge. A shop can easily perform this.
  2. Check for Spark:
    • Ignition System: A lack of spark could be due to faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or even a crankshaft position sensor. While checking spark plugs requires removal, you can sometimes test for spark by removing a plug, reattaching its coil/wire, grounding the plug, and having someone briefly crank the engine (use caution).
  3. Immobilizer System: Subaru vehicles have an immobilizer. If the key's transponder isn't recognized, the engine might crank but not start. Try using a spare key if you have one.
  4. Engine Sensors: A faulty crankshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensor can prevent the ECU from knowing when to fire the spark plugs or inject fuel, leading to a no-start condition.

When to See a Shop:

  • If you've confirmed the fuel pump isn't priming or you're not getting spark, it's time for professional diagnosis. These issues often require specific tools and knowledge to troubleshoot safely and effectively.
  • A shop can quickly scan for pending codes (even if the CEL isn't on), test fuel pressure, check for spark, and diagnose sensor failures, helping to pinpoint the exact cause of the no-start condition.
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