Menu

4993 Peachtree Road, Chamblee, GA 30341

Business Hours: Mon-Fri 8AM-6PM

innerbanner-image
What to Do If Your Car Won’t Start
blogdetail-image
19 Oct, 2023

What to Do If Your Car Won’t Start

It can be frustrating when you insert the key in the ignition and turn it, but the car does not start. It’s a sinking feeling. In this blog post, we’ll look into the common reasons why your car won’t start and what to do about it.

Common Reasons a Car Won’t Start

  • Out of fuel
  • Battery problems
  • Fuel pump issue
  • A malfunctioning starter
  • Bad alternator
  • Stuck steering wheel
  • Dead key fob battery
  • Car is in gear
  • Clogged fuel filter
  • Bad spark plug

Steps You Should Take If Your Car Won’t Start

  • Make Sure There’s Fuel

It might sound obvious, but the first step is to ensure you have enough fuel in your tank. Without enough fuel in the tank, the fuel pump won’t be able to draw fuel, and the engine may not start until more fuel is added to the tank. You can call a family member, friend, or roadside assistance service to acquire gas for you.

  • Check the Car Battery

A weak or dead battery is a common culprit. Turn on your headlights; if they're dim or don't come on at all, it's a sign your battery might need a jump or replacement.

  • Examine the Battery Connections

Loose or corroded battery connections can disrupt the electrical flow. Check for secure, clean connections at the battery terminals. If the connections are loose, use the appropriate wrench or pliers to tighten the terminal nuts securely. To clean corroded battery terminals, mix baking soda and water into a paste. Apply it to the terminals, scrub with a wire brush, and rinse with water.

  • Identify Ignition Issues

Problems with the ignition switch or key can prevent a car from starting. Ensure the key turns smoothly and there are no issues with the ignition system.

  • Troubleshoot a Locked Steering Wheel

In some cases, the steering wheel might be locked, preventing the ignition key from turning. To resolve this issue, gently turn the steering wheel while trying to turn the key. If it doesn’t work, seek help from a trusted auto repair service.

  • Inspect the Alternator

If your car starts but then stalls, it could be an alternator issue causing the problem. An alternator problem may cause the battery to drain quickly.

  • Check the Starter

If you hear a clicking sound when you turn the key in the ignition, the culprit could be the starter motor. A failed starter motor needs to be replaced. Reach out to a nearby mechanic to help you replace the starter motor.

  • Call a Roadside Assistance Service

If you're unable to identify or resolve the issue, calling a roadside assistance service can help jump-start your car or provide a tow to an auto repair shop.

  • Reach Out To a Professional Auto Repair Shop

If the problem remains unresolved, it's time to contact a professional auto repair shop. Experienced mechanics can diagnose and fix the underlying issue, whether it's related to the engine, electrical system, or other components.

Is Your Car Not Starting? Call Wrights Car Care for Help

Wrights Car Care is an auto repair shop providing professional car care and services. If your car won’t start and you’re looking for a trusted mechanic to diagnose the problem and provide you with a reliable solution, get in touch with Wrights Car Care. Our knowledgeable and experienced mechanics have the expertise and top-of-the-line tools to fix your car and get you back on the road.

/ NEWS AND ARTICLES

Recently From the Blog

Wright's Car Care offers the most reliable import and domestic auto repair services. Read our blog posts to learn more about your vehicle.

Repair/ Care

How a Manual Transmission Works

Most vehicles on the road are powered by internal combustion engines (ICE), and the vast majority of these vehicles come equipped with automatic transmissions. However, a small percentage of ICE…

READ MORE
Repair/ Care

How a Car Engine Works – A Simple Explanation

Despite the rapid adoptions of electric vehicles, the internal combustion engine (ICE) is the beating heart of most vehicles on the road today. Understanding how an ICE works is crucial for hundreds of millions of drivers worldwide, and this brief guide brought to you by Wrights Car Care will break down the workings of a car engine in a way that’s easy to grasp,…

READ MORE
Repair/ Care

The Consequences of Neglecting Your Car's Oil

If you own a vehicle with an internal combustion engine (ICE), you’re probably familiar with the dreaded oil change chore.…

READ MORE
Repair/ Care

What To Look Out for When Buying a Used Car

Buying a new car is going to put a heavy dent in your wallet, which is why many individuals resort…

READ MORE
/ TESTIMONIALS

What Our Happy Customers Are Saying

My experience with Wrights Car Care was probably the best car repair experience I could ask for. The last thing that you want to worry about while putting yourself through college is whether or not you can trust the people working on your car.  Wrights Car Care was very honest about exactly what the problems were with my vehicle and which issues needed to be addressed immediately and which ones could wait.  I have had no issues with any of the repairs I have had. They really have the customer's best interest in mind and it shows!

Susan Knippenberg

have been going to Wright's for numerous years and David has always been honest and helpful and concerned about each customer and their circumstances.  They always give detailed reports about what needs to be fixed and even a time frame if it can wait a while or needs immediate attention.  I really appreciate that personal attention.

Marcia Werner

This place is absolute gold. We moved to the neighborhood 3 years ago, and they have been our go-to car place for every issue, large or small, ever since. It's like bringing my car to a trusted and knowledgeable family member. They have done everything from major repairs to minor tune-ups for us, and we have never been dissatisfied. Twice I have brought my car not sure what was going on, and it turned out to be a small enough issue that they fixed it on the spot for no charge! Honest, competent, quick, fair, and kind. You can't do better.

Amy Robertson

Wrights car care rocks!! I had a car issue with a quick timeline to get back to college. David got me in and out quickly, with the part I needed, and didn't try to sell me something I didn't. You cannot beat the kindness and service I experienced!! We have gone to Wrights Car Care before, and this is why we keep going back. THANK YOU!!

Charlotte Matthews