STEP 2: Testing The Fuel Pump's Pressure
After you've confirmed that all four cylinders are getting spark, the next step is to check the fuel system.
Specifically, the next step is to test the fuel pump's pressure with a fuel pressure test gauge.
Although there are several ways to test the fuel pump, a fuel pressure gauge is the absolute best way to find out if the fuel pump has failed or not.
You can find the fuel pressure specifications, and the fuel pump pressure test explained in a step-by-step manner here:
The fuel system is NOT causing the no-start problem if:
- The fuel pump's pressure output is within factory specification.
If the fuel pressure gauge reports the indicated fuel pressure specification, then you can confidently conclude that the fuel pump is not behind the engine's no-start problem.
The next step is to check the internal health of the engine (this is the air/compression part). Go to: STEP 3: Making Sure All Cylinders Have Compression.
The fuel system IS THE CAUSE of the no-start problem if:
- The fuel pump's pressure is 0 PSI (or anything below the fuel pressure specification).
This confirms that the no-start problem is caused by a lack of fuel. This usually means that the fuel pump is bad and needs to be replaced.
STEP 3: Making Sure All Cylinders Have Compression
Alright, so far, you've checked and confirmed that:
- The ignition coils are creating and delivering spark to the spark plugs (thus eliminating the ignition system).
- The fuel pump pressure is within specification.
The next step is to check that all cylinders can compress the air/fuel mixture (within them).
This involves testing for a blown head gasket and ensuring all four cylinders have compression.
The following tutorials will help you with both tests in a step-by-step manner:
- How To Test For A Blown Head Gasket (1.5L Toyota Tercel).
- How To Test Engine Compression (1.5L Toyota Tercel).
A lack of engine compression is NOT causing the no-start problem if:
- You have confirmed that your Toyota Tercel DOES NOT have blown head gasket.
- All cylinders have at least 120 PSI compression.
A lack of engine compression IS THE CAUSE of the no-start problem if:
- You have confirmed that your Toyota Tercel has a blown head gasket.
- Two or more cylinders have 0 PSI compression.
No-Start Troubleshooting Summary
Troubleshooting the cause of your engine's no-start problem boils down to a process of elimination.
Specifically, you're determining which component keeps the engine from receiving air (compression), fuel, or spark.
By performing some basic tests to confirm the presence of spark, fuel, and compression, you'll save yourself the frustration of replacing components that won't solve the problem.
More 1.5L Toyota Tercel Tutorials
You can find a complete list of 1.5L Toyota Tercel tutorials and wiring diagrams in this index:
Here's a sample of the tutorials you'll find in the index:
- How To Test The Igniter -Step By Step (1995-1996 1.5L Toyota Tercel).
- How To Test Engine Compression (1.5L Toyota Tercel).
- How To Test The Fuel Injectors (1995-1996 1.5L Toyota Tercel).
- How To Test For A Blown Head Gasket (1.5L Toyota Tercel).
If this info saved the day, buy me a beer!
