What do you do when you turn your keys in your vehicle’s ignition but it just won’t start? This is a puzzling and frustrating situation indeed that leads to security and safety risks for both your vehicle, and you yourself. The cause of your car’s inability to start can range based on many mechanical, or even, in newer cars, software based factors. Here’s a guide to the reasons your car may not start correctly, as prepared by the fully licensed and experienced towing experts at Towing Chicago.
Battery Issues
This is the number one reason for car starting issues – and it’s easy to diagnose. Look at the starter under the vehicle’s hood and listen to see if there’s a clicking sound when you start the engine. A clicking sound – not a cranking sound – is likely due to an electrical problem. You can also determine if this is the issue by attempting to activate features like automatic windows or windshield wipers that use the battery for operation. You can likely fix this issue with a jump lead – but it may be possible that the battery cannot be repaired, and that you will need to receive towing service to get the battery replaced.
Ignition Issues
If you’ve determined that the battery is fine, check the ignition switch by turning on the headlights. If they turn on, the cause is likely simply due to the ignition switch.
Starter Issues
Similar to the ignition, this is a common cause of cars with functioning batteries being unable to start. Check if this is the cause by listening for a clicking sound when you turn the keys – if you hear this, it’s likely an issue with the car’s starter.
Fuel Depletion
This may seem like an obvious issue, but many people overlook this! Sometimes cars won’t start simply because there’s not enough gas in the tank. Check your vehicle’s fuel gauge to see how much fuel is left in the tank – and if it’s too little, contact a licensed towing service to deliver you fuel directly to your location.
Fuel Filter Issues
When your fuel filter is clogged, your gas cannot get to the car’s engine, preventing the vehicle from starting. Many people don’t know that fuel filters need to be changed semi-regularly – once after every ten-thousand miles – so if you’ve ruled out the previous potential causes of your car’s inability to start, try changing the fuel filter and see if that solves the issue.