Auto Talk: When your car won’t start

The phrase “won’t start” covers a multitude of possibilities. Maybe the problem is as obvious as being out of gas, or any number of other reasons. Here’s a quick guide to identifying the problem when your engine won’t crank at all. What’s the first thing that happens when you turn the key?

No dash lights, no sound
Either the battery is discharged or there’s a wiring problem in the starting system. If a jump-start doesn’t work, you will probably have to call for assistance.

Rapid clicking sound; dash lights go dim
This means your battery is low, but not entirely dead. The underlying problem could be the battery itself, a faulty alternator or another cause such as a loose alternator belt. Jump-starting the car should work temporarily. Have the battery charged, and the charging and starting systems checked.

Dash lights are on, but engine won’t crank
Make sure you have the gearshift in park and try again. If this doesn’t work, try starting in neutral. With a manual transmission, make sure you have the clutch pressed all the way to the floor. If the car still won’t start, you may have a problem in the starting circuit, requiring professional repair.

Dash lights come on, then go right off again. When you release the key, the lights slowly
come back on.
This indicates a loose battery connection. Cleaning and tightening the battery terminals may fix the problem.

You hear a single hard clunk after turning the key
Turn the headlights on and try again. Do the lights dim slightly when you turn the key? If so, you probably have either a bad starter or a seized engine. If the headlights don’t dim, there may be a connection problem between the starter and the starter solenoid. In either case, you will need to call a tow truck to take your car to a repair shop: it’s not going anywhere on its own.

You hear a loud scraping or grinding noise after turning the key
This indicates a bad starter drive or a damaged ring gear on the flywheel. Both will require having the car towed and repaired. You may still be able to start the car if you try turning the key a few more times, but don’t press your luck. If the car starts, your only trip should be straight to the repair shop.

AAA Connection
Find a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility
Place an online request for Roadside Assistance.

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