My car won't start - what now?

If your car won't start, it's a frustrating experience that can ruin your entire day. However, knowing what the problem is can save you time, money and stress. The first step is to diagnose why your car could not start. Most drivers worry about expensive repairs, but often, the solution is much simpler than you might think.

The Battery

When a car will not crank, most of the time the battery is the problem. Car batteries usually last between three to five years and their performance can be affected by factors including extreme temperatures, lack of use and poor maintenance. If you're asking yourself, 'why won't my car start?' listen carefully when you turn the key. A clicking sound or flickering dashboard lights can often be a sign of a weak battery. A completely dead battery will produce no sound at all when you attempt to start the vehicle.

Why Is My Car Not Starting?

Sometimes, you will find that your car is not starting but the battery is fine. In these cases, other components might be responsible. The starter solenoid is an important electrical component that can fail and mean that your car won't turn over. When this happens, you might hear a single loud click or complete silence when you try to start the car.

A seized starter motor is another potential issue. This is a mechanical issue that can stop your car from turning over, even when the other electrical systems seem to be working well. Modern vehicles have complex electrical systems and sometimes computer modules or security systems can also unexpectedly stop your car from starting.

The Weather and the Seasons

The weather also plays an important role in car starting issues. Cold temperatures can be challenging for vehicles, and in winter, motor oil becomes thicker which makes it harder for the engine to turn over. This increase in resistance can make it seem as though your car won't start and won't turn over, even when all the other components appear to be functioning relatively well.

Condensation in the fuel lines during temperature changes can create ice blockages. Fuel filters that are clogged or contaminated can also stop the fuel being delivered, which may make it appear as though the car is having electrical issues when the problem is actually related to fuel supply.

Diagnostic Tools

Modern vehicles have on board diagnostic systems, and many garages also offer free diagnostic scanning which can quickly identify any issues. These scans can read error codes that pinpoint where the problem is. At Protyre, we will check the condition of your battery and test the charging and starting equipment for free. Use our garage finder to find your nearest local Protyre garage.

Troubleshooting Steps

When your car won't start and won't turn over, don't panic. Check your battery connections for any visible corrosion, and make sure that the connections are clean and tight. If possible, try jump-starting the vehicle using jumper cables and the battery from

another car. A multi meter can help you test the voltage of the battery and you should pay attention to any warning lights on your dashboard, as they can provide clues about what's wrong. If basic troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue, it's time to visit a professional mechanic. Complex electrical problems or mechanical failures need specialised diagnostic equipment as early intervention can prevent more expensive repairs down the line.

Prevent Future Starting Issues

Regular maintenance is your best defence against unexpected car troubles. Have your battery tested annually, keep the terminals clean and deal with any warning signs promptly. Simple preventative measures like that can reduce the likelihood of getting stranded in a car that won't start. It's also important to keep your tyres in good condition, and at Protyre, we offer a range of top quality tyres from leading brands such as Pirelli and Bridgestone. Use our handy tyre finding tool and search by tyre size, vehicle registration or postcode.

Frequently Asked Questions