bought an 89 corolla yesterday and today it doesn’t wanna start. i’m not big on cars. i just wanna ask you guys if you think i need a battery before i go out and buy one

Hello!

I've been a long time owner and maintainer of classic cars and actually owned a 1987 Carina back in the day.

Anyway, I listened to the video and it did tell me a few things.

  1. The starter motor is turning, so there's likely plenty of battery left.
  2. Doesn't sound like she's firing or getting fuel though, does it fire up if you pump the gas pedal or apply the choke more?
  3. Does this model have a manual or automatic choke? I'm guessing it's not EFI.

Anyway, here's what I would look at:

  1. Check the spark plugs to see if there's wet petrol present or bone dry. If dry, there's a fuel blockage or something like a fuel pump is faulty and not pumping.
  2. You can check fuel pump by literally disconnecting the fuel pipe. If you start the car petrol will flow out the pipe fairly quickly. (Obviously fire safety caveat here!!!)

Whatever you do, don't just buy a battery or replace a fuel pump. Fix the easy things like fuel blockages or fuses/wiring first. Once you've ironed out the cheap fixes then work on the more expensive stuff.

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