Problem: My Car Won’t Start — What Could Be Wrong?
You turn the key or press the start button… and nothing happens. No crank, no engine roar—maybe just a faint click. It’s a frustrating situation that can strike at the worst times, whether you’re rushing to work or running an important errand.
The reasons behind a car not starting range from something simple like a dead battery to more complex issues like a faulty starter or fuel system problem. Knowing the possible causes helps you figure out whether it’s a quick fix or something that requires professional help.
At Biswas Automobiles, we regularly deal with no-start issues. Here’s a breakdown of common causes, quick checks you can try, and when it’s best to call in the experts.
Quick Signs Something Is Wrong
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No sound or just a clicking noise when turning the key
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Dashboard lights flicker or don’t turn on
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Engine cranks slowly or not at all
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Smell of fuel or burning
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No response when pressing the start button
These signs can help narrow down the cause before you move to solutions.
20 Common Reasons Why Cars Don’t Start (and What To Do)
1. Dead Battery
The most common culprit. Lights dimming, no crank, or silence usually point to a weak battery.
✅ Try: Jump-starting with cables or a power bank.
⚡ If it won’t hold a charge, get it tested and replaced at Parbas Automobiles.
2. Loose or Corroded Battery Terminals
Even a good battery won’t work if the terminals are dirty or loose.
✅ Try: Cleaning corrosion with baking soda and tightening clamps.
🛠 If unsure, let a professional handle it.
3. Faulty Starter Motor
If you hear a single click but no crank, the starter motor may be failing.
✅ Quick Fix: Tapping the starter lightly may help temporarily.
🚗 Solution: Replace it immediately at Parbas Automobiles.
4. Bad Ignition Switch
Lights come on, but the engine won’t start? Likely the ignition switch.
✅ Test: Do accessories like headlights or radio still work?
🛠 Fixing this requires professional diagnosis.
5. Car Not in ‘Park’ or ‘Neutral’ (Automatic Only)
Automatic cars won’t start unless in the correct gear.
✅ Try: Shifting to ‘Park’ or ‘Neutral’ firmly before retrying.
6. Jammed Steering Wheel Lock
Key won’t turn? The steering wheel may be locked.
✅ Try: Gently moving the wheel side-to-side while turning the key.
7. Dead Key Fob Battery (Push Start Cars)
Push-start cars need a working fob battery.
✅ Try: Holding the fob close to the start button.
🔋 Replace the fob battery if needed.
8. Empty or Low Fuel Tank
It sounds obvious, but it happens more often than you’d think.
✅ Always check your fuel level before panicking.
9. Clogged Fuel Filter
Blocks fuel flow to the engine.
🛠 Requires filter replacement by a mechanic.
10. Faulty Fuel Pump
Car cranks but won’t start? Fuel pump may not be delivering fuel.
✅ Listen for a humming sound when turning the key to “ON.”
🛠 If silent, have the pump checked by Parbas Automobiles.
11. Broken Ignition Coil
Causes weak or no spark, leading to rough starts.
✅ Look for shaking or hesitation when starting.
🛠 Needs professional replacement.
12. Faulty Engine Sensors (Crankshaft / Camshaft)
These sensors control spark and fuel timing.
🛠 Diagnosis requires scanning error codes.
13. Immobilizer or Security System Issue
Car won’t start and security light is flashing?
✅ Try locking/unlocking with the key fob or using a spare key.
🛠 If it persists, have the immobilizer reset by a professional.
14. Blown Fuse or Relay
Fuses control critical systems like the starter and fuel pump.
✅ Check the fuse box for blown fuses.
🛠 Replace fuses or relays if needed.
15. Bad Alternator
If your battery keeps dying after jump-starting, the alternator may not be charging it.
✅ Signs: Flickering lights, warning light on the dash.
16. Old or Fouled Spark Plugs
Leads to weak sparks and rough starts.
✅ Replace plugs every 20,000–30,000 km for smooth running.
17. Broken Timing Belt (or Chain)
Serious issue—can cause engine damage if forced.
🛠 If suspected, tow the car to Parbas Automobiles immediately.
18. Flooded Engine (Older Cars)
Too much fuel in the cylinders prevents starting.
✅ Try holding the gas pedal fully down while starting.
19. Cold Weather Problems
Thickened oil and weak batteries make winter starting harder.
✅ Use winter-grade oil and park indoors if possible.
20. Wiring or ECU Malfunction
Sometimes the issue lies in the car’s computer or wiring.
🛠 Requires professional diagnostic tools to identify and fix.