A beautifully maintained 2005 Hyundai Tucson recently arrived at AutoSavvy Mechanical on a tilt tray after suddenly refusing to start.

And what a Tucson it is.

For a vehicle now more than 20 years old, this particular example is in remarkable condition. The exterior and interior have clearly been cared for exceptionally well, and it is a real credit to its owner. In fact, it is in better condition than many much newer vehicles we see through the workshop.

The problem, however, was a frustrating one.

The Tucson had broken down at the owner’s home two days earlier. The engine would crank normally but simply wouldn’t start.

The owner had called the RACQ, and their mobile technician suspected the fuel pump was the likely culprit. Another possibility was a problem with the key recognition system, which could potentially prevent the vehicle from recognising the key and allowing the engine to start.

But there were still plenty of other possibilities. A crankshaft position sensor, ignition problem, ECU power supply or another electrical fault could all produce similar symptoms.

Diagnosis before replacing parts

Rather than simply replacing any possible suspect parts, we carried out a thorough diagnosis and some additional research into the Tucson’s electrical system.

The investigation eventually led us to the main relay.

The relay had failed and was no longer supplying power to the ECU. Without that power supply, the engine could crank perfectly well but would never start.

A new relay has been ordered and, once fitted, the Tucson should be back on the road.

Why diagnosis matters

This is a good example of why modern vehicle diagnosis isn’t simply about guessing which component has failed.

A failed fuel pump, failed relay, crank sensor or ECU power supply can all produce a very similar symptom — the engine cranks but doesn’t start.

Replacing the wrong component can be expensive and still leave the customer with exactly the same problem.

At AutoSavvy Mechanical, we believe in testing, researching and diagnosing the cause before replacing parts. Sometimes the fault is a major component, and sometimes, as in this case, it’s a relatively small and inexpensive electrical component that brings the whole vehicle to a standstill.

And then there was the inspection…

While the Tucson was in the workshop, we also had the opportunity to give it a thorough inspection underneath.

The results were just as impressive as its appearance. The underside of this car and all it’s various components are very good order. For a 2005 vehicle, its overall condition is exceptional.

It is a great reminder that good maintenance and a caring owner can make a remarkable difference to the life of a vehicle.

Another diagnosis solved at AutoSavvy Mechanical — and another very well-kept older vehicle ready to get back on the road.