Top Reasons Why Your Car Won't Start
There's
nothing like that sinking feeling when you turn the key in the ignition,
nothing happens. And since a car is a big group of complicated systems – with
each one connected to several other systems – it can be daunting to know where
to start. Fortunately, there are a few common reasons and these are a good
place to start.
Here are a
few of the top reasons why your car won't start.
Immobilizer. Many cars are equipped with immobilizer devices
and those devices are engaged and disengaged through computer chips embedded in
the key or a key fob. Unfortunately, those chips aren't always durable when
they're jammed into your pocket with your cellphone, chewing gum, and coins.
Check to make sure the immobilizer light isn't flashing.
Fuel. You have enough fuel in the car, right? And
it's not in a big pool under the car, right? That might seem like a silly
question to ask but it's a good first place to check. If you've tried starting
the car and you smell fuel – but there isn't any under the car – it's possible
that the engine has been flooded (by inadvertently pressing the gas pedal too
soon).
Transmission. Sometimes, it's as simple as your
transmission isn't fully in "Park" (even though the stick shift seems
to be). Put on the parking brake, turn the key slightly, put the transmission
in neutral and try again.
Battery. Like any other battery, your car's battery
carries a charge and can lose its power over time. This can be hastened by
leaving lights on. Try turning on your headlights and seeing if they come on.
If not, you might need a jumpstart.
Connections. Canadian roads can be rough and winters can
be harsh, so wires that connect one part of the car to another can loosen and
corrode. Lift your hood and check to make sure everything is connected and that
each connection is clean.
Fuses. You're probably familiar with fuses in your
house. If you plug too many things into them at once, they can blow. The same
thing can happen to your car. Pull out your owner's manual and check those
fuses.
If you're
still not sure what it could be, try lifting the hood so you can watch, listen,
and smell what's going on. Your senses could give you a clue as to what the
problem might be. Of course, there are many reasons why your car may not start
and if none of these work, seek the help of a professional mechanic to analyze
and fix the problem.
