First things to check for crank no start

[Beachdude]

My 2008 CXL has never failed to start before. But 2 days ago, I went to start it, and it bumped for a split second as if it was starting, then just got the dreaded engine turning over but no firing what so ever.
I was going to start with the Fuel Pump Relay, as I've heard it's a common issue. But would appreciate any common steps to check after that, if it still doesn't start.

 

[MelsRegal]

Follow the steps in this link

How To Troubleshoot A No Start (GM 3.8L)

How To Test A No Start Condition. GM 3.8L. Testing a Cranks but does Not Start Condition on your GM 4.3L, 5.0L, 5.7L pick up, van or SUV is not that hard. Testing a No Start Ignition System Basics. Fuel System Basics. Test the Basics in a No Start Conditi

troubleshootmyvehicle.com

 

[2007LucerneCXL]

If the fuel pump relay hasn't been replaced it's a good suspect to start with. Lots of posts but check the relay and inspect the fuse box inside relay connection for melted or burnt areas. Next follow MelsRegal post on troubleshooting.

 

[Beachdude]

Thanks so much guys. You gave me a good starting point. And thanks for the terrific guide, @MelsRegal

 

[Beachdude]

Thanks guys for all your advice. Got the 2008 up and running. Long story short, I hand both a bad fuel pump relay and a bad ICM. But she's purring like a kitten now. Many thanks!

 

[2007LucerneCXL]

Thanks for the update, but the 2008 and up Lucerne's have a defective rear seat fuse box so be mindful that the relay even if replaced may not solve the problem long term.

 

[Beachdude]

Thanks for the update, but the 2008 and up Lucerne's have a defective rear seat fuse box so be mindful that the relay even if replaced may not solve the problem long term.

Thanks for the heads up.
So, do you recommend replacing the fuse box, or waiting until issues start arising?
Can you still find these through part stores?

 

[2007LucerneCXL]

On replacement from others, my 07 has the older design so not a problem, it seems a point of not if but more of when. As far as availability it does show up on GM sites and used ones on eBay or pick and pulls yards. There are posts where a external relay modification to the box type installation which appears to work and be a cheap DIY.

 

[Beachdude]

On replacement from others, my 07 has the older design so not a problem, it seems a point of not if but more of when. As far as availability it does show up on GM sites and used ones on eBay or pick and pulls yards. There are posts where a external relay modification to the box type installation which appears to work and be a cheap DIY.

Thanks for that info. If we ever get our power and Internet back, I'll check around. We're on day 12 and counting without, her in the Upstate SC.

 

[2007LucerneCXL]

Sorry to hear about that, seen the news regarding the area and can't imagine the difficulties in just doing simple daily activities. Wishing you the best on getting back to normal.

 

[Bearsize]

When you get back to it, change out that fuse box.
My 2008, died, fuel pump and fuse box done, If you ever have someone sit in the back, supposedly shorts out!, see Buick repair.

 

[century61]

Thanks for the heads up.
So, do you recommend replacing the fuse box, or waiting until issues start arising?
Can you still find these through part stores?

I had the seat/fuse box issue on my 2008 cxl model. What happens of course is the seat pushes against the relay causing arcing and melts the fuse box where the relay plugs in.

What I did was buy an after market 80 amp relay and 20 amp fuse link and just wired it externally. It sits right outside the fuse box under the seat. I used an 80 amp relay so it would not heat up much at all and last a long time. Problem solved now for approximately 4 years. Its better than spending the money on a new fuse box. I got the relay from amazon in a five pack purchase.

Amazon.com