What to Do When Your Car Won’t Start

The most common reason a car won’t start is a dead or failing battery. The battery powers the electrical system of your car, including the starter motor, lights, and other critical components. Over time, the battery can lose its charge or deteriorate, especially if it’s an older battery. To check if your battery is the issue, try turning on your car’s headlights or interior lights. If they appear dim or do not come on at all, the battery is likely dead. The next step is to jump-start your car using jumper cables or a portable battery pack. If the car starts after a jump, it’s likely that the battery needs to be replaced. In some cases, the battery may seem fine, but there could be issues with the alternator. The alternator is responsible for keeping the battery charged while the car is running, and if it fails, the battery will not receive a charge. If you notice any warning lights or if the car starts and then quickly dies, the alternator could be at fault.

Another common reason a car won’t start is an issue with the fuel system. If the car is out of fuel, it obviously won’t start. It sounds simple, but it’s an easy mistake to overlook—especially if the fuel gauge is malfunctioning. If the car has fuel but still won’t start, the problem could be with the fuel pump, filter, or injectors. The fuel pump is responsible for pushing fuel from the tank to the engine, and a malfunction here can prevent your car from starting. Similarly, clogged fuel filters or faulty fuel injectors can disrupt the fuel flow to the engine. To troubleshoot, check if you can hear the fuel pump working when you turn the key to the “on” position. If you don’t hear a humming sound, the fuel pump might be the issue. A mechanic can inspect the fuel system to ensure that all components are working properly

If your car still won’t start, the issue could be with the ignition system. A car’s ignition system includes several components, such as the ignition switch, starter motor, and spark plugs. When one of these components fails, the car won’t be able to start. A faulty ignition switch is a common culprit. If you turn the key and hear no response, or if the lights and radio turn on but the engine doesn’t, it’s worth checking the ignition switch. If it’s defective, the car may not start even though the battery is fine. Spark plugs are another component of the ignition system that can wear out over time. If the spark plugs aren’t firing properly, the engine may not start. You might notice your car cranking but failing to start. Spark plugs need to be replaced regularly, so it’s a good idea to check them if your car is having trouble starting

The starter motor is responsible for getting your engine to turn over when you turn the key. If you hear a clicking sound when you turn the key but the engine doesn’t start, the issue could be with the starter motor. Over time, starter motors can wear out, especially if they are used frequently. If the starter motor is malfunctioning, you may need to replace it. This is typically a job for a professional mechanic, but you can check the starter motor by tapping it lightly with a hammer (while the car is off). Sometimes, this will temporarily restore function if there is a minor issue.

Some modern vehicles have security systems that can prevent the car from starting if something goes wrong with the system or if it doesn't recognize the key fob. If you’ve had trouble with the car’s security system or your key fob is malfunctioning, this could prevent your car from starting. If your key fob isn’t working properly, try replacing the battery. If that doesn’t work, there could be an issue with the car’s security system, and you may need to have it reset by a mechanic or dealership.

If you’ve gone through the basic troubleshooting steps and your car still won’t start, it’s time to call in the professionals. While some issues, like a dead battery or fuel problem, can be easily fixed, others, like issues with the starter motor or ignition system, require more expertise. One of the best ways to handle this situation is to book an appointment with a trusted mechanic. Carr app makes it easy to find and book appointments at certified garages near you. Whether you need a quick diagnostic check or a more complex repair, Carr’s network of trusted garages can help

The Carr app offers the convenience of booking maintenance services and repairs directly from your phone. Simply enter your vehicle registration number, and you’ll gain access to a network of approved mechanics who can diagnose the issue and fix your car in no time. With thousands of certified garages across the UK, Carr’s platform ensures that you get quality service every time, whether it’s for a quick fix like a battery replacement or something more complex. Download the Carr app today for Android here or iOS here and get back on the road faster.