I found a cheap 2009 cx-7 that will not start. Has 56,000 miles. The check engine light is on and after key is turned it flashes a few times then goes solid. I have tried using 3 different obd2 scanners. None of them will pull up any codes or clear check engine light. I can get the engine to hit every once in a while but it will fall on its face within a second, even with throttle applied. Exhaust pipe smells very rich. Pcm does make a clicking sound after attempted start, and there is a whine/buzz sound coming from somewhere under the intercooler.

Also I did not know about the extent of the timing chain issues on these motors before I purchased it. I hope that is not my issue. I pulled the oil fill cap and there is slack in between the cam wheels, is any slack acceptable?

 

How much slack?

 

Should have by finger touch about 1/8"/1"4 play. You'll have a little with the tensioner and chain. Normal. If everything was rock solid 10000% tight. The engine wouldn't turn over. Too much so your looking at a chain tensioner issue. However....


That won't be your issue for non start. I've found a lot of scanners won't pick up the Mazda could for some reason. My Mac one will and another Nova one I have. 3 other guys at the shop when they started wouldn't. Did updates and 1 worked the other 2 had to buy better scanners. Gilave weird codes with $&# symbols. Goodluck