Your car is essential to your life. It helps you maneuver through your day-to-day tasks and errands. As such, you likely want the vehicle to be in its optimal condition at all times. Unfortunately, cars are prone to breaking down. Among the common problems you may face is a car that won’t start.
If you’re lucky, the issue may emanate from a simple case such as a dead battery, which you can quickly resolve. But in other cases, a car’s failure to start may indicate something more serious that would require the expertise of a professional mechanic. Discover possible reasons why your car won’t start and what to do.
1. Dead Battery
A dead battery is the most common cause for a car refusing to start. Your vehicle depends on the battery to power up all its systems, such as the ignition and fuel injection. When the battery is low on power, it can no longer provide an adequate charge to keep these systems running. As a result, your car may not start.
Besides the car failing to start, you can tell if it’s a battery problem if the headlights are dim or a clicking sound occurs when you turn the key.
If you think the battery may be the problem, you may jumpstart the car. But if this trick fails, the battery is likely not the culprit, and you should check other possible causes.
2. Starter Problems
The starter gets the engine going when you start the ignition. The component has a small gear that meshes the engine flywheel. When you turn the key, the starter sends electric power to the engine and sets it in motion.
If the starter fails, you may hear a clicking noise when you turn the key. The reason is that the starter solenoid is trying to engage but can’t.
The starter is a delicate component, so it is not an issue you can quickly fix on your own. Instead, let an auto repair specialist inspect and replace the starter if necessary.
3. Faulty Wiring
If the engine cranks but the car won’t start, it may be due to a wiring problem. Over time, the wiring system may get damaged or corroded, resulting in an electrical issue that prevents the engine from starting.
Other telltale signs of faulty wiring include dim lights coming from the car. If you suspect this is the problem, take your vehicle to an auto shop for repairs as soon as possible.
4. Fuel Issues
Your car needs fuel to run, as the engine can’t start without fuel. Your car may have fuel problems in two ways: not enough fuel or bad fuel.
If you’re low on gas, you only need to fill up your tank. But on the other hand, if you have enough fuel, but the car still refuses to start, the fuel itself may be an issue. And a dirty fuel filter is the most likely cause.
The fuel filter traps dirt and debris, and it may clog over time. When this happens, the engine may not get enough fuel, resulting in the car’s failure to start. Other signs of a faulty fuel filter include:
- Noisy fuel pump
- Car stalling
- Engine misfiring
In this case, a fuel filter replacement is the best remedy.
If you have trouble with your car, don’t attempt to fix the problem on your own. You may end up doing more harm than good. Instead, let a professional auto repair specialist look at your vehicle and determine the best action.
You can trust us at All German Auto for all your car maintenance needs. We have extensive experience working with all German brands, and our team of experts can help you get your car back on the road in no time. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
