Why Your Car Won’t Start – 7 Common Reasons (and What to Do Next)

There are few things more annoying than getting out of the car to turn the key and then realizing that your car isn’t starting. We often see this issue in our Gainesville shop. Drivers of Gainesville, Bristow, Manassas, Haymarket, and nearby towns who call us for assistance when their car suddenly fails to start.

If this is something that has happened to you, do not panic. The majority of the time, it’s something easy to fix. In this article, we’ll look at some of the seven most frequently occurring causes your car isn’t starting, some quick tests that you can perform safely, and the time to take your vehicle to a mechanic.

Safety First

Before you take any other action, ensure that you’re secure. If you detect the smell of smoke or a distinct burning smell, or a fuel leak, don’t attempt to start your carget away and call for help. If you’re stuck on the roadway, make sure you turn on your hazard lights and then call roadside assistance. When you’re in a secure location, you can look into the possible reasons.

1. A battery that is dead or weak

This is the most frequent reason why a car will not start. Batteries are prone to wear out over time, especially when temperatures are extreme. Short trips frequently with lights on or corroding the terminals may also take their toll on the battery.

If you press the button and you hear no noise that clicks, or the dashboard lights are flickering weakly, it is likely that your battery is the cause. You could try a jump-start when you have cables and a vehicle that is available. If your car starts but stops and then restarts, then the alternator may not charge the battery correctly. In this scenario, you should get it checked by an experienced technician.

2. Problems with the starter motor or Solenoid

It is the starter motor that’s the one responsible for turning the engine. If it is not working, it will make one loud click each time you turn the ignition keyor perhaps nothing whatsoever. Starters wear out due to electric issues, heat, or simply wear and tear.

Be careful not to try to start your car over and over to avoid overheating and cause further damage to the starter. The best option is to get a professional who will test batteries, the wiring, and the starter motor to determine the issue.

3. Problems with Fuel Delivery

Sometimes, your engine is cranking normally, but won’t begin, which usually means that the engine isn’t getting enough fuel. This could be because of an issue with the tank, a blocked filter, or an inoperable relay.

You could try switching the key to the “on” setting (without beginning) and observing closely the tank of fuel. A soft humming sound suggests that the pump for fuel is functioning. If you aren’t hearing it, there could be a problem either with the fuel pump itself or the electrical connection. If you’ve had a problem driving with the level of fuel very low and you’re not sure what to do, adding a few more Gallons and attempting again might assist; however, any issues that persist must be investigated by a repair shop.

4. Key Issues or Ignition Switch

Modern cars are dependent on advanced security and ignition systems for security and ignition. A malfunctioning ignition switch, damaged key fob, or malfunctioning immobilizer could easily stop the vehicle from getting started.

If the radio and lights function, but the engine does not turn on, or you notice a security symbol flashing on your dashboard, it may be related to the anti-theft or ignition system. Try using a spare key or changing the battery in the key fob. If this doesn’t work the issue, an expert diagnostic scan will determine the cause quickly.

5. Engine Mechanical Issues

However, less frequently, mechanical problems in the engine could prevent the engine from working completely. Issues such as a damaged chain or timing belt or severe starvation of oil, or even a stuck engine can be serious and require a specialist’s attention.

If the engine does not try to turn over or if you’ve heard loud knocking or banging sounds before the engine died, don’t try to restart it. Contact a mechanic right away to avoid any further injury.

6. A Failing Alternator

Many drivers believe that the dead battery is always the cause, but often the alternator could be the main culprit. The alternator helps keep the battery in good condition while the engine is operating. If it is not working, then the battery will run out, and the vehicle will stop working even if it is restarted.

The signs of a damaged alternator can be seen in dimmed headlights, flashing dashboard lights, or a car that stalls while driving. A test of the charging system can determine if the alternator or battery is the cause.

7. Fuel that is contaminated or incorrect

The quality of fuel can cause your car not to start. In the case of fuel that is contaminated, as well as contaminated gas, or even using the wrong kind of gasoline (like diesel for a gas vehicle), could prevent your engine from starting.

If you suspect that the fuel is contaminated or a different fuel type, don’t start the vehicle. It could release the bad fuel throughout the system, causing damage to the injectors and catalytic converter. Instead, you should have the car taken to a repair center to be inspected and for cleaning of the fuel system.

Basic Things To Do before calling for help

If you’re stuck and need to determine the most basic, there are a few security checks you can make:

• Check that the battery terminals are safe and clean.
• You can try a jump-start if you have the right equipment.
• Try it with an extra key or replace the battery in the key fob.
• Examine your dashboard for warning lights. They usually provide helpful clues.
• If none of the above solutions help is the case, you should contact an expert for diagnosis or towing.

What can you expect at Our Car Shop in Gainesville?

If your car is taken in for repair to be repaired, our technicians employ an extensive, step-by-step procedure to identify the root of the issue. We start with the complete diagnosis scan to determine the system’s information and fault codes. We then proceed to the battery, alternator, and starter test. If required, we examine for leaks in the engine’s fuel tank, pressure levels, and conduct a physical inspection to determine if the engine has damage.

You’ll always receive a thorough explanation of the problem, as well as photographs or test results if required. There’s no speculation, no unnecessary repairs, just a transparent, solid service.

Serves Proudly Gainesville as well as Beyond

We’re located in Gainesville, and we proudly provide service to drivers of Bristow, Manassas, Haymarket, Warrenton, Nokesville, Centreville, Fairfax, Chantilly, Aldie, Leesburg, and other nearby communities. If your vehicle won’t start at home or at work, or out on the highway, we’ll assist you in getting it back on the road quickly and in a safe manner.