My car won’t start: Possible causes

Nothing is more annoying than a car that won’t start, especially when you’re in a hurry in the morning! Being late for work, a disrupted schedule and the fear of having to pay a high price for repairs can create stress. To avoid succumbing to panic, it can be helpful to have some basic knowledge about the possible causes of an engine that won’t start.

Knowing more about the subject will help you more easily identify the source of the problem, and allow you to get from point A to point B with peace of mind! 

My car won’t start: what should I do?

There can be many causes for a car that won’t start. But according to any good qualified technician, the first question to ask is whether the engine is running when attempting to start. Is your engine running, but unable to operate autonomously? There could be anomalies in the ignition system or other types of mechanical failures. It then becomes necessary to do an in-depth analysis to find the real cause of the problem. 

Car that won’t start: what to check?

The battery is flat 

The first and easiest thing to check is the condition of your battery. It is the battery which provides power to the starter. Even after the engine stops, the battery continues to supply energy to several components of the car for a specific period of time. Needless to say, the battery is in high demand. This is why your car’s battery is the first thing to check when the car no longer starts. Finally, it is advisable to remain vigilant for signs that could let you know if your battery needs to be replaced.

Your car won’t start, but the battery is ok?

If your car won’t start, but the battery is ok, lift the hood and check to see if the battery clamps are tight. If necessary, fix them, but first make sure that there are no battery acid deposits.

The support terminals seem dirty? If so, you should see a whitish or greenish deposit around the battery posts and terminals. This is a sign of corrosion. In this case, loosen the clamps and clean them with a brush designed for this purpose.

My car no longer starts: other possible causes

Fuel is not getting to the engine

It’s difficult to make the mistake of emptying your fuel tank to the last drop with the indicator gauge and indicator lights that activate when the level is low. However, an engine that refuses to start can be explained by a less obvious cause: the pump relay is faulty.

The fuel pump relay is faulty

If your vehicle does not react despite a full fuel tank, the possibility of a failure with the pump relay should be considered. By ensuring the distribution of gasoline to the engine, the pump relay plays a crucial role. If this component is not working properly, it can cause starting problems and prevent the engine from starting. 

What sounds like sputtering or coughing when you try to start can be signs of this type of problem. In such cases, it is imperative to consult an experienced mechanic for a thorough diagnosis.

There is a problem with the car starter

When you turn the key (or if you press a press button for recent models), the electric motor connected to the battery triggers the start. If nothing happens, you hear a clicking sound or a high-pitched grinding sound, there is a strong possibility that there is a problem with your car’s starter. Seek the advice of a qualified mechanic to assess the situation and offer you possible solutions.

Is the engine flooded?

An engine can flood when the amount of fuel in the air-fuel mixture is excessive, preventing starting. This situation can occur if you hold the accelerator pedal down too long when starting. Wet spark plugs become unable to produce sparks, which impairs starting.

The timing belt needs to be changed

The timing belt synchronizes the movement of the engine’s internal components. This is the part that ensures that the engine runs smoothly.

If it is damaged, you may have difficulty starting the engine. This is a serious problem that only a qualified mechanic can fix, because a broken timing belt can cause internal engine damage and lead to major breakdowns. Preventative maintenance is strongly recommended to ensure proper functioning.

There are problems with fuses and electrical connections

Fuses play a crucial role in a car’s electrical system because they protect components from power surges. Defective fuses will disrupt the starting of your automobile by hindering the required electrical supply. To avoid this type of problem, check the condition of the fuses often and replace any that are damaged.

Likewise, reliable electrical connections are essential for smooth engine starting. Loose or corroded terminals can cause electrical disturbances. It is suggested to regularly inspect the connections to ensure they are secure, especially those related to the battery and starter.

The alternator is defective 

If your car no longer starts, the alternator may be faulty. The alternator is responsible for producing electricity to power the battery while the engine is running. If it fails, the battery will not be able to recharge, which will cause a drop in electrical power. Since the starter cannot turn efficiently, the power supply will be too weak for ignition. Consequence: the engine does not start.

Your car no longer starts? Ask for help from a qualified technician!

For expert advice, maintenance or repair of your car, trust the specialists at Trans-Mico Automotive. Our CAA recommended garage assures you of superior quality services, offered by a team of certified technicians who are always happy to serve you. 

Contact us to find out more, or to make an appointment!

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