SureTrack Real Fix: No Pressure, No Start

Real Fixes from the SureTrackĀ® expert information resource are documented issues from actual shop repair orders and community discussions. Read on to see how SureTrack can help you correct issues that are not easily diagnosed using OEM information alone. SureTrack is currently available free with the purchase of a current Snap-onĀ® diagnostic software version.

Normal requirements for starting are fuel, spark and compression, but what about oil pressure? Follow this Real Fix to see how a faulty oil pressure switch caused a no-start condition on this Hyundai Santa Fe.

Vehicle
2003 Hyundai Santa Fe LX 2.7L

Title
Engine Does Not Start, Replaced Engine Oil Pressure Switch

Complaint
The customer states the engine will not start.

Cause
Confirmed the customer’s complaint and found the engine did not start. Connected spark testers to each spark plug and cranked the engine. Found the spark testers illuminated brightly as the engine was cranked. Connected a fuel pressure gauge to the fuel system, cranked the engine, and found the measured fuel pressure was 0 PSI. Used a scan tool to view the engine performance parameter data and found that there was no engine oil pressure switch signal present. Inspected the engine oil pressure switch harness connector and found the connector was saturated with engine oil, which indicated the engine oil pressure switch was leaking. Used the multi-meter to test for power at the engine oil pressure switch harness connector with the engine cranking and found power was present. Used a fused jumper wire to bypass the engine oil pressure switch and found the engine started, which confirmed the engine oil pressure switch was faulty.

Correction
Replaced the engine oil pressure switch and verified the vehicle operated properly. The customer’s concern did not return.


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About the Author

Nick Taylor

Nick Taylor is the SureTrack Community Administrator and a Senior Applications Specialist at Mitchell 1 with over 25 years of experience with electronic repair data systems. Nick previously worked in the automotive dismantling and engine rebuilding industries.