A car that won’t start can be frustrating, but there are several possible causes that you can troubleshoot. Whether it’s a dead battery, fuel issues, or a faulty starter, here’s a step-by-step guide on what you should do if your car won’t start.
1. Check the Battery
Signs of a Dead Battery: If your dashboard lights are dim or you hear a clicking sound when turning the key, your battery may be dead or too weak to start the car.
What to Do:
- Jumpstart the Car: Use jumper cables to connect your car’s battery to another vehicle’s battery. If your car starts, the battery was the issue.
- Check Battery Connections: Ensure that the battery terminals are tightly connected and free of corrosion. Clean them if necessary to ensure a good connection.
2. Inspect the Starter Motor
Signs of a Faulty Starter: If you turn the key and hear a clicking sound or nothing happens but your lights are working, your starter might be the problem.
What to Do:
- Tap the Starter: Sometimes, lightly tapping the starter motor with a hammer can help it engage.
- Call for Professional Help: If the starter is completely broken, you’ll likely need a mechanic to replace it.
3. Check the Fuel System
Signs of Fuel Issues: If the engine cranks but doesn’t start, or if it stalls while running, it could be due to a fuel-related issue.
What to Do:
- Check the Fuel Level: Make sure you have enough fuel in the tank. A low fuel level can prevent the car from starting.
- Listen for the Fuel Pump: Turn the key to the “on” position without starting the engine. If you don’t hear a humming sound from the fuel pump, it could be faulty.
4. Examine the Ignition System
Signs of Ignition Problems: If the engine cranks but won’t start, it might be due to worn-out spark plugs or a malfunctioning ignition coil.
What to Do:
- Check the Spark Plugs: Inspect the spark plugs for wear or damage and replace them if necessary.
- Test the Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can prevent the car from starting. If the coil isn’t working, it may need to be replaced.
5. Test the Car’s Immobilizer
Signs of Immobilizer Issues: If the car’s security system or key fob isn’t functioning correctly, the immobilizer could be preventing the engine from starting.
What to Do:
- Try a Spare Key: If you have a spare key, try using it. Sometimes the key fob can malfunction or lose its programming.
- Reset the Immobilizer: Check your car’s manual for instructions on how to reset the immobilizer. This often involves a sequence of actions with the key.
6. When to Call for Help
If none of the above solutions work, it may be time to call for professional help. A mechanic can diagnose more complex issues, such as problems with the alternator, timing belt, or electrical system.
Consider Selling or Scrapping Your Car
If your car has ongoing starting issues or is too costly to repair, it might be time to consider selling it. At We Buy Scrap Cars & Vans, we offer a hassle-free way to sell non-starting or broken-down vehicles:
- Instant Valuation: Get a quick, no-obligation quote by contacting us via phone at 0800 680 9005, emailing buyer@webuyscrapcarsandvans.co.uk, or messaging us on WhatsApp at 4407979603739.
- Free Collection: We provide free car collection, saving you the trouble of having to move a non-starting vehicle.
- Competitive Pricing: Our offers are fair and transparent, ensuring you get the best value for your car.
- Eco-Friendly Disposal: We handle Auto Salvage and Scrap Yard services responsibly, recycling or reusing all usable parts.
FAQs
Start by checking the battery and connections. If the battery is the issue, jumpstarting the car might help.
Yes, we buy cars in any condition, including non-starting vehicles. Contact us for a free quote.
If the starter motor is faulty, it will likely need to be replaced by a mechanic. In some cases, tapping the starter can help engage it temporarily.
Contact Us
If your car won’t start and you’re ready to sell or scrap it, contact We Buy Scrap Cars & Vans today. We are located at:
We Buy Scrap Cars & Vans
Yard 1 A, Mount Alexander,
Fort William, The Highlands,
PH33 7NF
Phone: 0800 680 9005
Email: buyer@webuyscrapcarsandvans.co.uk
WhatsApp: 4407979603739
Get the best value for your non-starting car with We Buy Scrap Cars & Vans!