🚗 Car Problems
How to Fix a Car That Won't Start
A car that will not start is usually caused by a flat battery, a starter motor fault, or a fuel issue. Here is how to diagnose and fix it. Always ensure safety before working on a vehicle.
Likely causes
- Flat or dead battery
- Faulty starter motor
- No fuel in the tank
- Flooded engine (over-cranking)
- Faulty immobiliser or key fob
- Blown fuse
Step-by-step fix
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1
Check the battery first
If you hear a clicking sound when you turn the key, the battery is flat. If there is complete silence, check the battery terminals for corrosion.
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2
Jump-start the car
Use jump leads from a working vehicle or a portable jump starter pack. Connect red to positive (+), then black to negative (-). Start the working car, then start yours.
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3
Check the fuel level
Fuel gauges can be inaccurate. If you are unsure, add fuel before anything else.
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4
Try a second turn of the key
If the engine turns but will not fire, wait 30 seconds and try again. Do not crank for more than 10 seconds at a time or you risk flooding the engine.
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5
Check the immobiliser
Try your spare key. If the spare works, the original key fob battery may be flat or the transponder chip may be faulty.
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6
Call for breakdown assistance
If none of the above works, call your breakdown provider (AA, RAC, Green Flag) or a local garage. Do not force-start a car repeatedly.