Don’t panic, that’s what we’re here for. Let’s talk about what you can do if your car won’t start, and when it’s best to call your local Master Mechanic for assistance. 

Usually, when your vehicle doesn’t start, the problem is either battery or fuel related. In the low winter temperatures fuel lines can freeze. Moisture from condensation can accumulate in your fuel tank. The water is heavier than the fuel so it sits at the bottom of the tank and can turn into ice, restricting or even blocking the fuel pickup tube. If that’s the case, you’ll hear the vehicle/engine crank, but it won’t start.

Here, being proactive is your best defence. Try and keep your fuel tank full or at least half full, to decrease the amount of air space in the tank. Less air space means less chance of condensation forming.  Today’s lower and mid grade fuels already have ethanol in them so additional “gas line antifreeze” isn’t as necessary as it once was. However, users of some premium fuel should still consider it as not all premium fuels have ethanol in them.

By far the most common culprit for a non-starting car we see at Master Mechanic is the battery.

If you go to start your vehicle, and nothing happens, listen carefully. If you hear silence or clicking, your battery is likely to blame. Turn on your vehicle’s lights. If they are dim, you probably have a poor battery connection or a dead battery.

Loose or corroded connections can easily be cleaned with baking soda, water and an old toothbrush. Try tightening or cleaning the battery connections first, then attempt to start your vehicle again.

The automotive industry has had some incredible advancements in the last few years, that have made vehicles more reliable than ever. That said, there are still a ton of moving parts making your engine work, and even the most well-maintained cars will still have some minor issues.

Most of the time, something as small as accidentally leaving an interior light on will drain your battery. If this is the case, you’ll simply need a battery boost. Keeping  high-quality booster cables in your trunk is a good part of any winter emergency kitl, but please be careful. If you don’t know how to properly boost your car, or it still doesn’t start after you try, please contact your local Master Mechanic for more help.

Most batteries have a lifespan of 2 to 5 years, so if you continue to have issues starting your vehicle, it might simply be time to have the battery replaced. Call or stop by your local Master Mechanic and we’ll gladly test your battery charge for free.

The biggest thing to remember when your car won’t start is not to panic. It’s a much more common issue than you think, and if you have an otherwise healthy vehicle, it should be a quick fix.

What happens when car Cannot start?

When a car cannot start, it is typically due to one or more issues in its systems. Here are some common causes and steps to address them:

1. Battery Issues

• Symptoms: Clicking noise, dashboard lights flickering, or no lights at all.
• Causes: Dead, discharged, or corroded battery terminals.
• Solutions:
  • Check battery connections for corrosion and clean them.
  • Jump-start the car using jumper cables or a battery booster.
  • Replace the battery if it’s old or no longer holds a charge.

2. Starter Problems

• Symptoms: A clicking noise but no engine turnover.
• Causes: Faulty starter motor or solenoid.
• Solutions:
  • Test the starter using a multimeter.
  • Replace the starter motor if necessary.

3. Fuel System Issues

• Symptoms: Engine cranks but doesn’t start.
• Causes: Empty fuel tank, clogged fuel filter, or faulty fuel pump.
• Solutions:
  • Ensure there is fuel in the tank.
  • Replace the fuel filter if clogged.
  • Test and replace the fuel pump if needed.

4. Ignition System Problems

• Symptoms: Engine doesn’t fire, or misfires during startup.
• Causes: Bad spark plugs, ignition coil, or ignition switch.
• Solutions:
  • Inspect and replace worn-out spark plugs.
  • Test and replace faulty ignition components.

5. Security System Lockout

• Symptoms: Car won’t start and security light blinks.
• Causes: Faulty key fob or activated anti-theft system.
• Solutions:
  • Check the key fob battery.
  • Reset the security system according to the owner’s manual.

6. Alternator Problems

• Symptoms: Dim lights and inability to recharge the battery.
• Causes: Faulty alternator not charging the battery.
• Solutions:
  • Test the alternator.
  • Replace it if it’s not functioning properly.

7. Engine Problems

• Symptoms: Loud noises or no cranking at all.
• Causes: Seized engine or timing belt failure.
• Solutions:
  • Consult a mechanic for a detailed diagnosis.
  • Repairs may involve significant work or parts replacement.

8. Transmission in the Wrong Gear

• Symptoms: Car won’t crank.
• Causes: Gearshift not in “Park” or “Neutral.”
• Solutions:
  • Ensure the car is in the correct gear.
  • Check the gearshift linkage if there’s a problem.

Steps to Take

1. Check the basics: battery, fuel level, and gear position.
2. Listen for unusual sounds during startup attempts.
3. Consult the car’s owner’s manual for troubleshooting tips.
4. If unable to identify or fix the issue, contact a professional mechanic.