Why Won’t My Car Start? - Top 5 Reasons
Posted on 3rd February 2022 at 17:14
Here at Barrett Lee, we are constantly contacted by people asking the same question: ‘’why won’t my car start?’’. Although we will always try our best to provide a solution, it is sometimes hard to diagnose the cause of the problem. This is because there are a vast number of reasons why your car won’t start, and you could be experiencing any one of a number of common problems.
Why Won’t My Car Start? - Top 5 Reasons
We have prepared the following article to give any one asking ‘’why won’t my car start?’’ a greater insight into their vehicle. By following the points below, we hope you will be better equipped to diagnose your car issues.
My Car Won't Start - Top 5 Reasons
There is little more disheartening than getting into your car, turning the key in the ignition and it not starting. If you do not have a lot of technical knowledge about cars, this can also be a source of major confusion. For anyone suggesting ‘’my car won’t start’’, we have listed some of the most common reasons your car doesn’t start.
Faulty or Dead Battery
If a customer asks us ‘’why won’t my car start?’’, we will usually suggest a faulty or dead battery. Although examination is needed, battery issues account for an astonishingly high number of cars that won’t start. If your vehicle makes a rapid clicking noise when you turn the key and it is not starting, this is a telltale sign of a dead or faulty battery. The majority of the time, batteries die for the following reasons:
Something electrical (lights) were left on in the vehicle overnight or for a long period of time.
Your car has not been driven for quite a while.
A component of your vehicle’s battery is broken or faulty.
Although a jump start may get you up and running again, your battery will most likely need to be replaced. Moreover, It is always best to have a mechanic look over your vehicle if you experience any issues.
Fuel Issues
Sometimes, the answer to someone saying ‘’My Car Won't Start’’ is simple. It may come as a surprise to some people, but your car may just be out of fuel. If you have been driving around with very little fuel or your petrol gauge is broken, it can be difficult to realise how low you actually are. Fuel issues also includes problems with your fuel pump, as well as mechanical issues with the fuel system. If the problem does not resemble anything else in this post, you may be experiencing fuel issues.
Broken Starter Motor
Similarly to dead or faulty batteries, a broken starter motor accounts for the vast majority of cars that won’t start. When you put your key in the ignition and turn it on, your starter motor is engaged. This then turns the engine over and allows it suck in air. If your starter motor is not working correctly, this process cannot happen and the vehicle will not start. If your battery is charged but you hear a loud clicking noise when you try to start your car, this could indicate starter motor issues.
Immobiliser or Security System Fault
If your car’s immobiliser is having trouble recognising your key, you will be prevented from starting the vehicle. If the battery in your key fob is low or flat, this could be the problem. We recommend that you try a spare car and see if your car starts. If you have lost your spare or it is still not working, you may need to replace the key. Still, you should enlist the help of a mechanic to accurately diagnose the problem.
Electrical or Wiring Issues
Modern cars rely a great deal on electrical components. From time to time, these electrical components fail or are faulty. When this occurs you may experience issues with your vehicle, and it may not start. Whether it is your body control unit or battery cables, there can be a wealth of electrical issues causing your car not to start. If your engine won’t crank, your lights are not working properly or you have had battery issues, your vehicle’s electrical system may be to blame.
Why Won’t My Car Start? - Top 5 Reasons by Barrett Lee
Although this article will, hopefully, help people identify what problem they are experiencing with their vehicle, it is always best to enlist the help of an expert. Modern cars are complex bits of machinery, and diagnosing issues without any formal experience can be challenging. Moreover, you may be experiencing a problem that can only be resolved by a qualified mechanic.
If you suspect you are experiencing any of the following problems, the team at Barrett Lee can help. If you are based in or around Suffolk and North Essex, why not give us a call on 01787 540 001? Alternatively, click here to email us. Tell us your problem, and we will get back to you at the first opportunity.
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