Car Won’t Start
Car Won’t Start
This can sometimes be the million dollar question. There are so many reasons why a car won’t start. We will try to cover some of the signs to look out for. What you can do and what you can’t.
Some of the most common causes of why a car won’t start
Flat, faulty or dead battery
- Something electrical was left on in the car, like the lights, which ran the battery down.
- You haven’t driven your car for a long time.
- A fault with one of the battery components.
If the car makes a rapid clicking sound when you turn the key but won’t start, it could be the battery
Immobiliser
Sometimes, your car’s security system might actually stop you from starting the car if it doesn’t recognise your key. This might be because the battery in your key fob is low.
Alternator
- Alternator drive belt
- Wiring
Starter motor
A symptom of a faulty starter motor might be a loud click when you turn the key in the ignition or no click at all.
Fuel Problems
- No fuel
- wrong fuel (diesel in petrol car or visa versa)
- Fuel pump issue
- Electrical or mechanical issues with the fuel system
- Fuel injectors
- Throttles
- Fuel Pressure
Electrical or wiring problems
- Fuse box
- Battery cables
- Body control unit.
Engine Problems
- Crankshaft
- Timing Belt or Timing Chain
Spark Plugs
- Flooded Petrol Engine
- Faulty Spark Plugs
- Faulty Plug Leads/Wires
Steering
If you can’t turn the key in the ignition, the steering lock might be jammed.
Low Adblue
- Many new diesel cars use a fluid called AdBlue. If your car uses AdBlue, you’ll probably need to top it up at least once between services.
- If you’ve run out of AdBlue, you won’t be able to restart the engine. You may have to call out a mechanic as some car models need software to restart them.
Â
What is AdBlue?
AdBlue is an exhaust fluid, not a fuel additive. It’s stored in a separate reservoir and is topped up via a (usually) blue filler cap located either next to your fuel filler, in the boot or under the bonnet.
Other Car Related Issues
- Regulators
- Sensors
These are the top 12 reasons why a Car won’t start.
If you have serviced you car with e-CAR and you have your Membership Card with you just phone the number on the card and get your car towed to your nearest e-CAR workshop.
24hr Emergency Assistance
086 133 3260
find a workshop near you
Explore our services
Explore our services
Approvals & accreditations
Trust
e-CAR is accredited with RMI, MIWA, AA approvals, and Right 2 Repair Supporter for top-quality vehicle servicing and workmanship that meets industry standards.
