Actions if the Engine Does Not Start
GENERAL INFORMATION
Basic Checks
Before performing checks, make sure you have exactly followed the actions described in subsection 1.6 and that the vehicle has enough fuel.
If the vehicle is equipped with an engine start code system (immobilizer), try starting the engine with the other keys from the set. If the engine starts, the ignition key is faulty. Have the key checked at an authorized service center. If the engine cannot be started with the other keys, contact an authorized service center, as the anti-theft system may be malfunctioning.
PROCEDURE
1. If the starter does not crank the engine or cranks it weakly, check the condition of the power cable terminals and the reliability of their connections.
2. If the terminals are in satisfactory condition, turn on the interior lights. If the lights do not come on or become dim (or go out) when the starter is engaged, the battery is discharged. In this case, start the engine from an auxiliary battery or, if the vehicle has a manual transmission and no catalytic converter, the engine may be started by pushing the vehicle. Starting a diesel engine by pushing usually cannot be done when the battery is heavily discharged.
3. If the lights stay on but the engine does not start, the engine requires adjustment or repair. In this case, contact an authorized service center for qualified assistance.
* WARNING: Do not start the engine by towing. Otherwise, a collision may occur after the engine starts. Engines 4E-FE, 4A-FE, and 7A-FE must also not be started by pushing. The catalytic converter may overheat and cause a fire.
4. If the starter turns the engine at normal speed but the engine does not start, perform the following steps.
Gasoline engines
5. Make sure all wiring connectors are securely connected (especially the connectors on the distributor and the spark plug wire connections).
6. If the connections are in satisfactory condition, the cause of the starting failure is an overly rich mixture and cylinders flooded with gasoline (see below).
Diesel engines
7. If you attempted to start the engine with an empty fuel tank, it will be necessary to bleed air from the fuel system (see below).
8. If air has been bled but the engine does not start, repair is required. In this case, contact an automotive service center for qualified assistance.
Starting the engine when cylinders are flooded with gasoline
In the event of a starting failure, the engine cylinders may become flooded with gasoline due to repeated unsuccessful starting attempts.
PROCEDURE
On engines 4E-FE, 4A-FE, 7A-FE
1. Turn the ignition key to the START position and depress the accelerator pedal fully. Hold the key and pedal for no more than 15 seconds, then release. Then release the pedal and attempt to start again.
On SE models
2. Depress the accelerator pedal fully and hold for 15–20 seconds. Then attempt to start the engine without releasing the pedal. Do not press the pedal; only hold it down to the floor.
3. If the engine does not start after 15 seconds of starter operation, turn off the starter, wait a few minutes, then repeat the attempt.
4. If the engines 4E-FE, 4A-FE, and 7A-FE fail to start, repair or adjustment is required.
5. If the 2E engine fails to start, perform the procedure described above and try the following.
6. Remove the spark plugs and dry the electrodes.
7. Turn the ignition key to the START position and depress the accelerator pedal fully. Hold the key and pedal for no more than 15 seconds, then release.
8. Install the spark plugs.
9. Release the pedal and attempt to start the engine. If the engine does not start, adjustment or repair is required.
Test yourself
A quick Toyota Corolla quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.