Why Won’t My Car Start?

Everyone takes their car starting for granted, until one day it doesn’t. Cars are complex pieces of engineering with many moving parts, but a car that won’t start is usually one of a few common issues. Read below to find out why your car might not start.

How Does A Car Start?

Cars with combustion engines need three things to start: Fuel, oxygen and spark. These three things need to happen in a certain order and intensity for an engine to start and run. When you turn the key (or push a button) to start your car, an electric starter motor spins the engine. The engine draws in air and fuel which the spark/glow plugs ignite. Once the combustion process is properly started, the engine is running on its own, allowing you to disable the starter motor.

An issue with the fuel, spark, oxygen and starter motor are the most common reasons a car won’t start.

Common Reasons A Car Won’t Start

Dead Battery

If you have a dead battery, you won’t be able to start your engine. There are a number of key components that require electricity on engine startup including the starter motor, the spark plugs and in most modern cars, the fuel pump. A jump start can usually start your car if a dead battery is the case. If your battery continues to constantly die (even after being replaced), this may be a sign of a larger problem. For information, read our blog about batteries.

Broken Starter Motor

If you hear a clicking noise when turning your key and nothing else, you may have a broken starter motor. Over time starter motors can get worn out or be burnt out if used when the engine is running. If you believe your starter motor is broken, you will need to book in to a mechanic and have it replaced.

A Fuse Has Blown

Check all of your car’s fuses for a blown one. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one (most modern cars come with spare fuses in the fuse box). If the fuse continues to blow, this may be sign of a larger issue and it is time to book in to a mechanic and have the problem fixed.

Worn Out Spark Plugs

Just like many other car parts, spark plugs wear out over time. Spark plugs ignite the fuel and air mixture in your engine, causing combustion. Dying spark plugs do generally give some warning signs that they are dying, including poor fuel economy, rough idle, stalling and lack of power.

Car Still Won’t Start?

If you’re car still won’t start and you’re not sure why, contact Australian Mechanical today and have your car fixed. The team at Australian Mechanical are qualified professionals who will get your car running and back on the road in no time.