6 Reasons Your Car Isn’t Starting

6 Reasons Your Car Isn’t Starting - Are you asking yourself, “why won’t my car start”?

There’s nothing worse than hopping in your car, putting the key in the ignition and turning it, only to hear that dreaded churning noise that means you’re not going anywhere.

Chances are, it’s happened to you before. And it very well may happen again.

In these instances, understanding why your vehicle isn’t starting could save you the headache of guessing. Not to mention the time and money wasted trying to figure out exactly what the problem is.

To ensure you’re better prepared the next time your car engine won’t turn over, here are 6 Reasons Your Car Isn’t Starting

1. Battery problems

One of the most likely reasons is that you have a dead, flat or faulty battery. The car battery is essentially the heart of the car, so without a strong pulse under the bonnet, your car likely won’t leave the curb.

Causes for a dead or flat battery include leaving something electrical on in your car unknowingly, like your lights; leaving your car garaged for an extended period of time; or simply being fitted with a faulty battery to begin with.

Jump-starting your vehicle might revive your vehicle if a flat battery is the issue. However, for dead or faulty batteries, you’ll need to replace them altogether or risk possible electronic component damage as a result of a poor-functioning battery.

2. Starter motor or engine issues

Connected to the battery, the starter motor is what kicks the engine into gear when you turn your key in the ignition or hit the start button. A loud ‘click’ can be an indication that you have a faulty starter, which will require the attention of a qualified mechanic.

Similarly, problems with your engine’s mechanics can also prevent the car from starting, particularly when they involve the crankshaft or timing belt and timing chain, causing the engine to turn over at a faster pace than normal. Unfortunately, this will also require the eye of an automotive specialist.

3. Fuel mishaps

A common mistake that occurs when you’re borrowing or renting a car is filling it with the wrong fuel. It can be an easy mistake to make when you’re distracted at the fuel bowser or simply find yourself falling into a state of auto pilot at the servo.

When you fill your car with the wrong fuel, the engine will eventually fail to process it, preventing your vehicle from – you guessed it – turning on. Solutions can vary from a quick fuel flush-out all the way through to fuel pump, filter, injector and engine replacement.

4. Spark plug issues

Are you hearing a fast cranking or whirring sound when you turn the key? Or experiencing a strong smell of petrol? Another fuel-related cause can be a flooded petrol engine.

Engine problems more commonly occur during cooler weather. One particular reason your car isn’t starting is because you’ve switched your engine off too soon after starting it from cold. The residual unburned fuel wets the spark plugs and makes it difficult to get your vehicle going.

In these instances, a spark plug replacement will likely be required and quite possibly the car is due for a service.

5. Faulty alternator or immobilisers

The alternator plays an important part in getting your vehicle on the road. It creates the electricity required to keep the lights, radio and heating running, not to mention your car battery. When you encounter issues with the alternator belt or wiring, you’ll soon find that leaving your driveway no longer becomes an option.

Luckily most alternator faults have a light in red to warn you to get the alternator checked.

Sometimes, it’s not the engine mechanics at all but instead your cutting-edge security system. Frustratingly, something as simple as your key fob's low battery can prevent you from starting your car. In this case, try holding it up against the start button or using a spare key. If all else fails, it’s time to order a replacement.

6. Electrical or wiring problems

Auto electrical issues can be some of the most complex causes behind a non-starting car. They can be related to anything from the fuse box and battery cables to even the body control module. Bizarrely, they can also be caused by something as unprecedented as rodents nesting under the bonnet of your car.

Fortunately, all of the above situations can be avoided (even the rats!....yes we have seen this) with regular auto electrical services. Due to the complex nature of electrical components, many mechanics shy away from electrical repair work – Accelerate Automotive welcomes it.

Our combination of specialist factory service equipment and decades of experience means we’re equipped to solve a range of electrical repairs. And we’ll do it on time, to budget and above standard.

Plus, we can give any make or model the auto electrical diagnostics, repairs or replacements it needs. To give your car the superior, tailored maintenance required to keep it running reliably, click here to book your auto electrical service.