There’s no ignoring it: you won’t get far with a car that won’t start. Luckily, there are several ways you might be able to troubleshoot the problem without relying on a tow truck to get you to a mechanic. If your car won’t start, it often comes down to a few key systems and components, including the battery, alternator, starter, and fuel delivery system. By checking for signs that point to any of these common causes, you might be able to get your engine running—or know what to expect when you get to an auto repair shop.
Try Troubleshooting Simple Problems
It’s possible that the trick to getting your car started is as simple as jump-starting it or topping off the gas tank. Always keep a good set of jumper cables and a spare tank of fuel—even an empty one—on hand in case you run into trouble on the road.
Use Jumper Cables to Fix a Dead Battery
One of the most common reasons why a car won’t start is a dead battery. This can happen because of a light left on—or because the battery is old and worn down. In either case, you may be able to jump-start your car to get the engine running. Take a set of jumper cables and connect one end to your battery’s terminals and the other end to another car’s battery terminals. If this helps get your car running, be sure to take at least a 15-30-minute drive to help the battery fully charge again.
Top Off an Empty Fuel Tank
Your engine can’t run without fuel—and sometimes, it may be as simple as topping off your gas tank to get your car started. Especially if you remember getting close to an empty tank the last time you parked, this may be the underlying cause. Find the nearest gas station and fill a container with fuel to carry back to your car. Once you’ve added to the gas tank, try starting the engine again.
Check Symptoms to Help Identify the Underlying Cause
Aside from in-the-moment troubleshooting to get you back on the road, identifying a likely cause can help determine whether you need a Sacramento mechanic to help. Often, fixing a car that won’t start is simple and may be done without the help of a mechanic—other times, it’s a more serious or complex issue that requires professional help.
Is there a Spinning or Clicking Sound When You Try the Ignition?
When you hit the ignition, do you hear a clicking sound? If so, this indicates a possible problem with the starter. Damaged cables or a faulty motor can prevent your car’s starter from being able to turn over the engine. You may have also noticed it takes longer to start your car leading up to the engine not turning over. Check the condition of starter cables—and if you suspect a faulty starter, it’s best to have a mechanic handle repairs.
Does Your Engine Crank But Not Turn Over?
Normally, your car’s engine should start easily and quietly. If it cranks but won’t turn over, it can indicate a problem with the fuel delivery system. While this could point to an empty fuel tank, it may also mean that your fuel pump is faulty or fuel injectors are clogged, preventing adequate flow into the engine. An engine tune up service can help identify and fix issues related to fuel delivery and combustion so that your car starts and runs easily again.
Will Your Dashboard Lights Come On?
The interior lights in your car rely on power from the battery to turn on. If you see your dashboard lights come on but the engine won’t start, there may be a problem with the ignition switch—not the battery. This component is responsible for getting power to the ignition system and starter. On the other hand, if your dashboard lights come on but then quickly dim and turn back off, it may be time to have your alternator inspected and possibly replaced.
Are the Battery’s Terminals or Cables Dirty or Damaged?
Pop the hood of your car—how do the battery’s terminals and cables look? If any of these connections are damaged, dirty, or loose, it could prevent adequate power from reaching the ignition system. This can make it difficult or impossible to start your car. Try tightening or cleaning the battery’s connections before attempting to start your car again. However, it may be necessary to have the battery or its connecting cables replaced.
Get Back on the Road with Services at Your Local AAMCO
Don’t let a car that won’t start leave you stranded. Whether easy troubleshooting tips help get you back on the road again or you need help from a mechanic, trust your local AAMCO Sacramento with keeping your vehicle running smoothly. Anytime you have difficulty around getting the engine running, it’s important to have key systems inspected so that repairs can be handled proactively. Schedule your appointment with us today and we’ll help ensure components related to ignition, fuel delivery, and overall engine efficiency are operating well.
