Why Is My Car Not Starting?
For many drivers, a car that won't start is cause for alarm. After all, no one wants to be stranded without a working vehicle at home or on the road. If you have a vehicle that isn't starting, you may be able to find the problem on your own. If not, you will need to have a mechanic check out your car to make a diagnosis. Based on the car's symptoms, you may be dealing with one of these common causes for a car to stop working.
Broken Ignition
One component on your car that might break and prevent the vehicle from starting is the ignition. The ignition contains coils that usually deliver electricity to the engine. If the ignition coils break, which often happens if they are exposed to moisture, the car won't turn on when you put the key in the ignition switch. The ignition is a part that a qualified mechanic can simply replace to get your car going again.
Bad Starter
The starter is a small motor that helps turn your car on. The starter automatically signals the engine to turn over. If the starter fails, the engine won't receive the signal to fire up. The starter might make a clicking sound if it is broken, but it will not be able to start the car. The teeth on the starter can also wear out, which causes the starter to stop working.
Dead Battery
A top reason for a car not to start is a problem with the battery. Batteries naturally wear out with age. Most will last anywhere from three to five years. If you live in a particularly hot or cold climate, however, your battery will likely need to be replaced sooner. In mileage, you can expect your battery to last from 50,000 to 60,000 miles. Your mechanic will be able to test the battery's strength to see if that is why your car is not starting. A battery can also develop corrosion in the wiring that keeps it from working properly.
Clogged Fuel Filter
The engine fuel filter is one of two filters that your vehicle has. The fuel filter in the engine is designed to trap dirt, dust, debris, and other contaminants before they reach the engine and the fuel lines. The engine fuel filter should be cleaned out about every 30,000 miles. It may need to be replaced as well.
Empty Gas Tank
Simply running out of fuel is another reason why a car will stop working. If you know that your car has been low on fuel recently, or if you see the low fuel warning light come on in the car, an empty gas tank is a likely culprit.
Contact us today for an evaluation if your car is having trouble starting.