Why is My Car Not Starting

Whether you're about to go on a road trip or heading out to run errands, the last thing you want to encounter is a car that won't start. A car can have problems starting for a variety of reasons. Below we've listed some of the most common causes. If you're currently experiencing any of these issues, have your vehicle brought to our auto repair shop so that one of our certified technicians can help diagnose and repair the problem.

1. Dead Battery or Bad Connections

One of the top causes of a car that won't start is a dead battery. The battery can die due to old age, corrosion, or prolonged exposure to extreme hot or cold temperatures. Unlike many car problems that seem to start suddenly, a car's battery may sometimes provide warning that it is not working properly. If the lights appear to be dim when you start the vehicle, or if the car takes longer to start than normal, a dying battery could be the culprit. The battery light may also illuminate on the dashboard. Make sure to also inspect your cable connections. If the terminals are loose, show corrosion or are otherwise dirty, they should be cleaned or replaced before being reattached.

2. Faulty Ignition

A faulty ignition may also be the cause behind your car not starting. If the car won't start but the battery is working fine, the ignition switch may be to blame. One potential sign of this is headlights functioning perfectly fine, but the engine still won't start. In this scenario our mechanics can evaluate your vehicle and make a diagnosis to confirm the problem.

3. Bad Starter or Alternator

The starter is essentially a small electric motor that connects to the car's battery. It ultimately starts the engine when you turn on the ignition. If the starter fails, the engine won't crank at all when you turn the ignition key. A clicking noise when you start the vehicle may also indicate problems with the starter.

If your vehicle starts but it stalls or your lights become dim, the alternator could be the issue.  With a bad alternator the battery symbol may light up on your dashboard and a burning smell may be present as your alternator is connected to a drive belt. It's important to have this checked out quickly as it can also cause damage to your battery.

4. Clogged Fuel Filter

Clogs in the fuel filter will keep the gasoline in your car's system from reaching the engine. In turn, the car won't be able to burn adequate amounts of fuel. Historically, it has generally been recommended to update the fuel filter every 20,000 - 30,000 miles. However, this could be higher for newer vehicles due to advancements in technology. The best way to be sure is to check your vehicle's manual or speak to a trusted mechanic.

5.  Bad Timing Belt

Your timing belt plays an important role in rotating the cam and crankshaft in the engine.  Over time, your belt can become worn, damaged or worse...break.  You may hear a ticking sound or hear your starter power on but the engine won't start. Most of the time a timing belt can break while your vehicle is running so it's important to have regular inspections of your belt done to ensure it's in good working order.

6.  Is Your Vehicle in Park?

Your vehicle won't start if it's in gear. Double check to make sure it's not in neutral or if it's fully engaged in park. If it won't turn over while in park but will start in neutral, there is a possibility it may be a bad neutral safety switch which needs to be diagnosed and repaired by a certified technician immediately.

7.  Key Fob Is Dead

If you have a push button system and your vehicle will not turn over when you press the start button, it's possible your key fob is dead. Your vehicle received a signal from the fob to turn on your engine. Try replacing the battery to see if this fixes your issue. 

8. Empty Gas Tank

One of the simplest reasons your vehicle may not be starting, but nevertheless a fairly common one, is that your car doesn't have enough gasoline to run. It's always a good idea to pay attention to the gas tank indicator, especially if it lights up because it's nearly empty.

If you aren't sure why your car isn't starting, have your vehicle brought to our auto repair shop in Phoenix, AZ, and we'll be happy to help get your vehicle back on the road.