Why Won’t My Car Start?
We’ve all faced this frustrating scenario: you rush out on a cold morning, turn the key, and your car won’t start. Fortunately, many of these issues have simple solutions.
Car Won’t Start, What Do You Do Now?
1. Flat Battery
The most frequent reason your car won’t start is a flat battery. This is a common issue that we handle often, and many of our roadside rescue call-outs are for dead batteries. It can occur for various reasons, such as accidentally leaving the lights on.
A quick jump start is usually enough to get you back on the road. However, if the problem persists, you might need a replacement battery. If you’re not comfortable jump-starting your car yourself, contact our Roadside Rescue for assistance. To prevent a flat battery, check out our quick guide on battery maintenance.
2. Faulty Immobiliser
Immobilisers are excellent at preventing theft, but they can sometimes malfunction, preventing you from starting your own car. Often, it’s a simple issue like a loose connection or a dead key battery.
3. Fuel Problems
Running out of fuel is more common than you might think, despite warning lights and fuel reserve levels. Additionally, using the wrong fuel type can prevent your car from starting. If this happens, don’t drive the car—call a garage to get help resolving the issue. Learn more about misfuelling your car on our website.
4. Ignition is Stuck
If the ignition key and wheel won’t turn, the steering lock might be jammed. This often happens when the wheel is pressed tightly against an object like a curb. Try turning the steering wheel in both directions while turning the key. If necessary, carefully move the car away from the curb.
5. Starter Motor Problems
The starter motor is essential for getting the engine running when you turn the key. A significant number of our rescue service call-outs are due to faulty starter motors. If you hear a loud click when turning the key, the starter motor might be the issue. It’s best to have a mechanic evaluate the starter motor and the electrical system.
For instant online diagnosis of your car issues, visit Auto Advisor Online.
By addressing these common problems, you can quickly get back on the road and avoid unnecessary delays. If you need professional help, don’t hesitate to use our auto advisor tool for instant solutions.
