WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR CAR WON’T START

PROBLEM: MY CAR WON’T START — WHAT’S GOING ON?

You turn the key or press the start button, but nothing happens. No crank, no engine roar, maybe just a faint click. It’s a situation that can catch anyone off guard—and I’ve been there myself. Whether it’s early morning or right in the middle of an important errand, having your car refuse to start feels like a major setback.

The reasons your car won’t start can range from simple fixes like a dead battery to more complex issues like a faulty starter or fuel problems. Understanding what might be wrong helps you decide if it’s something you can handle or if you need professional help. In this guide, I’ll share the most common causes and what I do to get my car back on the road.

QUICK SIGNS THAT SOMETHING IS WRONG

No sound or just a clicking noise when turning the key
Dashboard lights flicker or don’t come on
Engine cranks slowly or not at all
Smell of fuel or burning
No response when pressing the start button

These signs can help you narrow down the problem as we explore solutions in the following sections.

20 Common Reasons Why My Car Doesn’t Start (And What I Do for Each)

When your car won’t start, it can be frustrating and confusing. There are many reasons behind this problem, from simple battery issues to more complex mechanical faults. Knowing these causes helps me quickly figure out what’s wrong and decide the best way to fix it.

Whether your car won’t crank over or is struggling to start, understanding the root cause is key. This guide covers 20 common reasons why cars don’t start, including specific problems with automatic vehicles. For each cause, I’ll share practical steps I take to get my car running again.

Dead Battery
A dead battery is the most common reason a car won’t start. If your car doesn’t crank or the lights are dim, the battery is often the culprit. Batteries can die from leaving lights on, extreme weather, or simply getting old.
When this happens, I first try jump-starting the car using jumper cables connected to another vehicle or a portable power bank. This usually gives enough power to start the engine. If the battery is completely dead or won’t hold a charge, it might need to be replaced.
If jump-starting doesn’t work, I check the battery terminals and connections before seeking professional help. When in doubt, contact the experts at Biswas Automobiles to get your battery tested and replaced quickly.
Loose or Corroded Battery Terminals
Sometimes, the battery itself is fine, but poor connections stop the car from starting. Loose or corroded battery terminals prevent electricity from flowing properly, even if the battery is fully charged. This can cause the engine to struggle or fail to crank.
When I face this issue, I check the terminals for corrosion—usually a white or greenish buildup—and clean them with a wire brush or baking soda solution. Then, I make sure the clamps are tight and secure.
If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, it’s best to let a professional at Biswas Automobiles handle it. Proper connections can save you a lot of trouble and keep your car running smoothly.
Faulty Starter Motor
If you hear a single click but the engine doesn’t crank, the starter motor might be the problem. The starter is responsible for turning the engine over when you turn the key or press start. When it fails, your car won’t start no matter how many times you try.
Sometimes, tapping the starter lightly with a tool can temporarily free it up and get the engine turning. If this works, I don’t wait—I head straight to Biswas Automobiles for a proper repair or replacement.
Ignoring starter issues can leave you stranded, so it’s important to address this quickly with expert help.
Bad Ignition Switch
If your dashboard lights come on but the engine won’t start or crank, the ignition switch could be the culprit. This switch sends the signal to start your car, and when it fails, the electrical system may seem fine while the engine stays silent.
To check, I test whether accessories like the radio or headlights turn on properly. If they work but the engine doesn’t respond, the ignition switch is likely at fault.
Fixing this usually requires professional help. I recommend visiting Biswas Automobiles to have the switch tested and replaced if needed, ensuring your car starts reliably every time.
Car Not in ‘Park’ or ‘Neutral’ (Automatic Only)
Automatic cars won’t start unless the gear lever is in ‘Park’ or ‘Neutral.’ If the car is accidentally left in gear, the safety system prevents the engine from turning over to avoid accidents.
When this happens, I make sure to firmly shift the gear into ‘Park’ first. If the car still doesn’t start, I try shifting into ‘Neutral’ and then back to ‘Park’ to reset the system. Sometimes, gently moving the gear lever helps re-engage the starter.
If these steps don’t work, it’s best to have a professional check the gear selector or related sensors. For fast, reliable help, I trust the team at Biswas Automobiles.
Jammed Steering Wheel Lock
If your key won’t turn in the ignition, the steering wheel lock might be engaged. This safety feature locks the wheel when the car is off to prevent theft, but sometimes the wheel gets stuck, making it impossible to start the car.
To fix this, I gently turn the steering wheel left and right while trying to turn the key at the same time. This usually releases the lock and lets the key turn freely.
If the key still won’t turn, don’t force it. Get professional help from Biswas Automobiles to avoid damaging the ignition or steering column.
Dead Key Fob Battery (Push Start Cars)
If your car uses a push start button and doesn’t respond when you press it, the key fob’s battery might be dead. Without power, the car won’t detect the fob, so it won’t start.
When this happens, hold the key fob very close to the start button or the sensor inside the car. This can sometimes let the car recognize the fob despite the weak battery.
If that doesn’t work, replacing the key fob battery is usually an easy fix. If unsure how to do this, seek professional help to avoid delays.
Empty or Low Fuel Tank
Running out of fuel is a simple but often overlooked reason why a car won’t start. Even if you think there’s enough gas, the gauge might be inaccurate or the fuel may have been used faster than expected.
When the engine fails to start, I always check the fuel level first. If it’s low or empty, I add fuel and try starting the car again. This quick step can save a lot of trouble and get you back on the road fast.
Clogged Fuel Filter
A clogged fuel filter blocks fuel from reaching the engine, causing your car to struggle or fail to start. Over time, dirt and debris build up in the filter, restricting fuel flow and affecting performance.
When I suspect this issue, I know the filter needs to be replaced. This isn’t a quick fix to do yourself, so I call a mechanic to handle the replacement and keep the fuel system running smoothly.
Faulty Fuel Pump
If the engine cranks but doesn’t start, a faulty fuel pump might be the cause. The fuel pump’s job is to deliver fuel from the tank to the engine. When it fails, the engine doesn’t get the fuel it needs to run.
One way to check is by listening closely for a humming sound from the fuel pump when you turn the key to the "on" position. If you don’t hear anything, it could mean the pump isn’t working.
Since fuel pump issues can be complex and affect your car’s safety, it’s best to have a professional diagnose and repair it. Ignoring this problem can leave you stranded or cause further damage.
Broken Ignition Coil
A broken ignition coil can cause your car to struggle when starting or run unevenly after ignition. The ignition coil generates the spark needed to ignite the fuel in the engine. When it fails, the spark may be weak or inconsistent, leading to misfires or rough running.
If you notice your car hesitates, shakes, or loses power during startup, a faulty ignition coil could be the reason. Diagnosing this issue often requires specialized tools and experience.
Since ignition coils affect engine performance and fuel efficiency, it’s important to have an expert check and replace them if needed to keep your car running smoothly.
Faulty Engine Sensors (Crankshaft / Camshaft)
Engine sensors like the crankshaft or camshaft position sensors help control the timing of the spark and fuel injection. When these sensors fail, the engine may crank but won’t start because it doesn’t know when to fire.
If the car won’t start and there are no obvious battery or fuel issues, sensor failure could be the cause. Diagnosing this usually requires a scan tool to read error codes.
Replacing faulty sensors is a job for a professional. Ignoring this problem can cause poor performance or prevent your car from starting altogether.
Immobilizer or Security System Issue
Modern cars have immobilizers to prevent theft by disabling the engine if the wrong key is used. Sometimes, the system malfunctions and mistakenly blocks your car from starting.
If the car won’t start and the security light is flashing, the immobilizer might be the cause. I try locking and unlocking the doors with the key fob or use a spare key to reset the system.
If that doesn’t help, a professional diagnostic is needed to fix the security system and get your car starting again.
Blown Fuse or Relay
A small blown fuse or faulty relay can prevent your car’s engine from starting. These components control the flow of electricity to important parts like the starter motor and fuel pump.
If the engine won’t crank or start, I check the fuse box for any blown fuses or damaged relays. Replacing a fuse is usually quick and easy, but a relay may need a professional’s attention.
Keeping fuses and relays in good condition helps avoid unexpected starting problems and keeps your car’s electrical system reliable.
Bad Alternator
If your battery drains quickly even after jump-starting, the alternator might be the problem. The alternator charges the battery while the engine runs, so a faulty one can’t keep the battery powered.
Signs of a bad alternator include dimming headlights, flickering dashboard lights, or a battery warning light on the dash.
If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to have the alternator tested and repaired by a professional to avoid being stranded with a dead battery.
Old or Fouled Spark Plugs
Worn or fouled spark plugs can cause your car to crank but start roughly or run unevenly. Poor spark leads to incomplete combustion, resulting in shaky starts and reduced fuel efficiency.
I make it a habit to inspect and replace spark plugs every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers to keep the engine firing smoothly.
Regular maintenance helps avoid starting issues and keeps your car running efficiently.
Broken Timing Belt (or Chain)
A broken timing belt or chain is a serious issue that can prevent your engine from starting or cause it to crank in an unusual way. This belt or chain controls the timing of the engine’s valves and pistons, and when it breaks, the engine can suffer major damage.
If you hear strange noises or the engine won’t crank properly, do not try to force it to start. Forcing the engine can cause costly damage.
The safest option is to have the car towed to a professional mechanic immediately. Quick action can help minimize repairs and protect your engine from further harm.
Flooded Engine (Common in Older Cars)
A flooded engine happens when too much fuel enters the cylinders, making it hard for the engine to start. You might notice a strong smell of fuel and lots of cranking without the engine firing up.
To fix this, I hold the gas pedal down fully while trying to start the car or wait a few minutes before trying again. This helps clear excess fuel and lets the engine start properly.
Cold Weather Start Problems
Cold weather can make starting your car more difficult. When temperatures drop, engine oil thickens, making it harder for the engine to turn over. At the same time, cold drains battery power, reducing its ability to start the car.
To avoid this, I switch to thinner oil grades designed for winter, which helps the engine turn smoothly. Parking the car indoors or in a garage also protects it from extreme cold and helps the battery stay stronger.
These simple steps can make cold mornings less stressful and keep your car ready to start when you need it most.
Wiring or ECU Malfunction
Sometimes, all signs point to a healthy car, but it still won’t start. This can be due to wiring problems or a malfunction in the Engine Control Unit (ECU), which manages the car’s systems.
When this happens, guessing won’t help. A proper diagnostic scan is needed to find the exact issue.
Having a professional run a full check can save time and prevent further damage by identifying and fixing electrical or ECU faults quickly.

Quick Fixes I Try Before Calling for Help

When your car won’t start but the lights come on, don’t panic. Trying simple steps first can save time and get you moving faster. Always be safe, and if something feels off, don’t hesitate to call for professional help.

Jump-start or Boost
Use jumper cables or a portable power bank to revive a weak or dead battery.
Shift Gears
Ensure the gear lever is fully in Park or Neutral. Sometimes the car won’t start if it’s not properly set.
Check Battery Cables
Look for loose or corroded battery terminals. Clean and tighten them to restore a good connection.
Try a Spare Key
Faulty keys or fobs can prevent starting. Using a spare helps identify if the key is the issue.
Tap the Starter
A light tap on the starter motor can free it if it’s stuck, allowing a temporary fix.
Let the Car Rest, Then Retry
Give the car a few minutes to cool down or reset before trying again; this can clear minor electrical glitches.

Call Biswas Automobiles for emergency service

When quick fixes don’t work, I call Biswas Automobiles for reliable help. They offer 24/7 support, including towing and emergency on-site repairs, so I’m never left stranded.

Their expert technicians handle hybrid, electric, and petrol vehicles with skill and care. They provide honest diagnoses, use genuine parts, and deliver fast service to get me back on the road quickly.

Located right here in Dhaka, their team is always nearby when I need professional assistance. Knowing expert help is just a call away gives me peace of mind every time my car won’t start.

How I Prevent Starting Trouble in the Future

To avoid starting problems, I test my battery every six months to catch any issues early. Keeping the battery terminals clean ensures a strong connection. I always use quality fuel to protect the engine. Regular inspections at a trusted service center help catch small problems before they grow. Lastly, I never ignore warning lights or unusual noises—they often signal a need for attention.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why won’t my car start even though it has power?
This can happen due to issues with the starter, fuel system, or security system.
Can I jump-start an automatic car?
Yes, jump-starting is safe for most automatics, but always follow your car’s manual.
How can I tell if it’s the starter or battery?
Clicking noises usually mean the starter, while no lights or power points to the battery.
Why won’t my car start after refueling?
This could be caused by a faulty fuel pump or blocked fuel filter.
What should I do if my car starts but cuts off quickly?
This often indicates fuel delivery or ignition problems needing professional checks.