You rely on your car for a lot of things, such as getting to work on time and transporting the kids to and from soccer practice. It’s easy to see why problems can arise if your car refuses to start.
There are literally dozens of reasons why your vehicle may not start. However, it can be fairly easy for our expert auto repair technicians to diagnose the issue depending on the symptoms.
The following are the five most common offenders of automotive no-start situations, and advice on how to ensure your vehicle stays in tip top shape.
You Have a Dead Battery
The most common reason for a car not starting is a dead battery. It is especially common after a long, hot summer. There are several factors that can contribute to a dead battery in a vehicle including its age, loose wires, leaving the lights on, and more. If you determine that your car is not starting because the battery has died, your first step would be to check and make sure the terminals are clean and connected tightly. If they are good, you will want to try and jump-start your vehicle. If the jump-start is successful, then your battery wasn’t completely dead but is on its way out. At this time, you should consider bringing your vehicle in and having the battery inspected by an automotive technician.
You Have an Empty Gas Tank
Sometimes the obvious answer is the right one. If your vehicle was running on fumes and you forgot to refuel, you may not have enough gas left in the tank to get it started the next time you need it to. Try not to be embarrassed, you aren’t the first driver to let your gas level get too low. Though it is embarrassing and more than a little inconvenient, it is a very fixable and affordable problem. Grab your wallet and a gas can then catch a ride to the nearest gas station. And, don’t let it get so low next time.
You Have a Clogged Fuel Filter
If your fuel filter is clogged, the gasoline won’t reach the engine. The fuel filter is responsible for keeping the fuel lines clear and blocking dirt and debris from reaching the engine. When the filter is clogged, several problems can arise, including a vehicle that won’t start. Most fuel filters require changing every 10,000 to 15,000 miles. For details specific to your vehicle, you should refer to your owner’s manual.
You Have a Bad Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is the area in which you insert your key, and it can malfunction. This may be the case if you know your battery is fine, yet your car isn’t turning over. If you are unsure, you can try turning on your headlights. If they work, then the battery is fine, and the ignition switch is the likely culprit. If you have a broken ignition switch, this kind of repair can be proven to be difficult. It is made that way to prevent theft. Bring your vehicle to us and we’ll fix it for you.
You Have a Broken Starter
A broken starter is another common reason your vehicle won’t start. The starter is a small motor that provides the turning force necessary to get the engine running. If you hear a clicking noise when you turn your key, it may indicate a broken or weakened starter. This problem may be temporarily fixed with a jump-start, but to completely fix it, you will need to bring it in to be repaired or replaced.
If your car won’t start, chances are it’s because of one of the above five problems. Whether a dead battery or a bad ignition switch is to blame, you can trust the certified automotive technicians at Virginia Auto Service to fix the problem. We are your go-to in Phoenix, AZ for reliable, high-quality auto repair services. Call (602) 266-0200 or schedule an appointment online.