1997 Buick Skylark started out sounding like popcorn

1997 BUICK SKYLARK
123,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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KATEDMC
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Hi,
I just bought this car from a auction so I have no history or even a owner's manual to look at. I figured the popping noise was a small hole in the exhaust cause at first it only made the sound when accelerating and not when idling or at a set speed. Well all of a sudden out of the blue it started rattling and popping really loud and at all the stop lights too also started hesitating a little so it felt like the car was gonna fall apart but I didn't have cash for a tow so I did my best to get as close to home as possible but it got even louder then stalled out on me. I managed to get it off to the side of the road and called a friend for a ride, but now we got it home and still can't get it even started, the check engine light and theft light are on now too. I tried the turn the key on and wait ten minutes to see if I could reset the theft part but no luck. Do you have any ideas as to what the noises may be and any other options for bypassing the theft light issue?
Thanks
Feb 3, 2009 at 9:41 PM
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2CARPRO JACK
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So it turns over and wont start or does it not turn over?. If it cranks but wont start, need to check for spark and fuel pressure.If it wont crank, then need to start by testing for power at the small wire on the starter for power with the key in the crank position with a test light.

https://www.2carpros.com/dia/test_fuel_pressure.htm

https://www.2carpros.com/how_to/how_to_test_an_ignition_system.htm
Feb 4, 2009 at 8:09 AM
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KATEDMC
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well at first it does nothing but one click, but after a few tries then it does click,click, click mutiple times each time I try, like the starter maybe is not providing a spark. I tried hold the gas pedal down 3/4 while turning over too and still no luck. I will test power on the starter and fuel pressure today.

Thank you so much for the fast reply
Feb 4, 2009 at 9:26 AM
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2CARPRO JACK
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Be sure the battery has a full 12 volts. If the small wire has power and it wont turn over, may need as tarter.Before replacing the starter, try turning the engine over by hand off the crank bolt to be sure it turns
Feb 4, 2009 at 10:10 AM