Each of us has gone through the experience of discovering our vehicle won’t start. We climb behind the wheel, turn the key, and feel the creeping sensation of dread as the engine refuses to roar to life. Usually, it occurs when time is not on your side. Even more discouraging than losing your main means of transportation is not knowing what is causing the problem. Is it the battery? The starter? The ignition switch?
Plenty of things can go wrong under your car’s hood which will immobilize it. The trick is knowing how to narrow down the culprit so you can either fix the problem or have your mechanic do it for you. We examine several of the potential reasons your vehicle will not start.
When The Car Engine Doesn’t Crank
If you turn the key and your engine fails to turn over, the problem is usually located in the ignition system, starter, or the battery. If your battery is the source of the issue, it may be because of low voltage or a bad connection between the poles and terminals. A low voltage problem can usually be fixed by jump starting your car and driving it for twenty minutes.
If you believe the car’s starter is the culprit, examine the wires first. If they’re clean and tight, the relay or solenoid may be bad. Otherwise, you may need to replace the entire starter. If your battery and starter are fine (your mechanic can test them for you), the problem is likely in the ignition system.
When The Auto Engine Does Crank
If the engine turns over when you turn the key in the ignition, but it doesn’t actually fire, the cause is a lack of spark, a lack of gas, or lack of sufficient compression. The fact that your engine is turning means that your battery is delivering voltage and your starter is being triggered.
You can purchase a spark testing device from most auto supply shops. Assuming there’s fuel in your gas tank, check to see whether your fuel pump is working properly. The vehicles which are rolling off the automakers floors today come equipped with fuel injection systems. While they’re more precise, they’re also more sensitive to pressure variances. The most likely cause of fuel pressure problems are located with the fuel pump.
To check the compression level, you’ll need to have access to a special testing device. Most auto repair shops have the device for their own use, not for public use, so testing may require a paid visit to the local garage. The mechanic will probably remove the spark plugs in order to check all of the cylinders.
As noted above, some issues are easily solved. Others will require help from your auto technician. The next time the car doesn’t start, you have an idea of some of the causes, reasons and explanations.
