There are few things more frustrating than a car that won't start. Thankfully, with the right preventative maintenance and care, you can generally avoid this fate. And if you do find yourself stalled by an engine that won't start, it's probably due to one of a few common issues. Following some quick troubleshooting, you'll be able to address the problem and get back on the road!
If you have any questions about ensuring that your car works as intended, don't hesitate to reach out to our used car dealership.
Here are some of the most likely culprits for a car that won't start.
1. You're out of gas! Don't laugh; it happens more often than you might think. While it may be a little embarrassing to admit that you got stuck because your gas tank was empty, think how much more embarrassing it would be to call for roadside assistance when all you really need is a trip to the pump! Check the gas before you check anything else.
2. Your battery is dead. Battery failure is by far the most common cause of a car that won't start. Indeed, batteries go bad for a number of reasons: Because you accidentally leave the lights on overnight, because a wire goes bad, or simply because the battery hits its expiration date
3. Your alternator is bad. The alternator is crucial; it actually helps your battery gain and keep its electrical charge. Often, what seems at first like a bad battery is revealed to be a faulty alternator. Certainly, if you change the battery and still have issues, you'll want to have the alternator looked at.
4. You have a clogged fuel filter. If the fuel filter becomes clogged, it means gasoline from your tank won't reach the engine. Thankfully, this is an easy issue to avoid, simply by ensuring your filter is changed on a regular basis. Ask about this the next time you visit the service center or used car dealership for an oil change or tire rotation.
5. You have a bad starter. The starter actually helps your engine start turning, when the key is first placed into the ignition. If you try to start the engine and hear a clicking sound, it could be a case of a bad starter.
6. You have a faulty ignition switch. Another reason why cars stall? Bad ignition switches. If you are able to turn on the headlights, but the engine itself won't start, that's a pretty clear sign that you're dealing with a bad ignition switch.
Nobody wants to get stuck with a car that won't start. Thankfully, if you attend to some basic preventative maintenance measures, including routine battery checks, you can generally avoid this fate.
Do you have any additional questions about keeping your car in top condition? We'd love to answer them! Reach out to our used car dealership at your next convenience.
