What are the reasons for no response when starting a Polo?
4 Answers
When the Polo shows no response during ignition and there is no sound from the starter, one possible reason is a dead battery, while another could be a damaged starter. Battery depletion can occur not only due to the natural aging of the battery itself but also because of the owner's usage habits. Some owners, in an effort to save fuel, prefer to turn off the engine while using electrical devices such as the audio system or cigarette lighter. However, this practice can lead to rapid battery depletion and shorten the battery's lifespan. When the battery is depleted or nearing the end of its life, symptoms such as difficulty starting the engine and flickering dashboard lights during ignition may appear. Additionally, the capacity and voltage of a battery nearing the end of its life will decrease, making it unable to start the engine after just one or two attempts. Methods to maintain the battery and extend its lifespan include: 1. Turn off all electrical devices before shutting down the engine. 2. Avoid using electrical devices when the engine is not running. 3. After each start, allow the engine to idle for at least half an hour to ensure the battery is sufficiently recharged. 4. When the vehicle is parked or not used for an extended period, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent natural discharge.
My car also had trouble starting before. The most common issue was a low battery. If I didn't drive it for a few days, the battery would drain completely, and even the dashboard wouldn't light up. Another time, the starter motor was broken - when I turned the key, I only heard a buzzing sound but the engine wouldn't crank. I suggest first checking if the battery terminals are loose, or try jump-starting to see if it works. If that doesn't help, it might be a blown fuse or a problem with the ignition switch. It's important to regularly charge and maintain the battery to reduce the risk of breaking down. Car batteries typically last about two years, and replacing a new one costs just a few hundred yuan - it's cost-effective and worry-free. Older cars require more frequent maintenance, otherwise minor issues can turn into major problems.
Car enthusiasts know that a non-responsive ignition can have various causes. A dead battery is the most common issue; if the dashboard lights dim when you turn the key, it's a clear sign of low power. If the starter motor is faulty, you'll hear a clicking sound but the engine won't start—check the relay or fuse for any damage. It could also be an issue with the ignition coil or spark plugs, leading to poor ignition. I usually start by using a multimeter to check the battery voltage; if it's below 12 volts, you'll need a jump start or a new battery. Cold weather can make starting difficult, so keeping an emergency power source handy is a smart move. When troubleshooting, always start with the simplest checks before considering a tow to the shop.
It's quite frustrating when the car won't start while driving. I think the first thing to check is whether there's still fuel in the tank, as no fuel naturally means no ignition. Weak batteries in the key or remote might also cause recognition issues, so try replacing the small battery. Sometimes it's a sensor system malfunction, and restarting the car's ECU can help. Safety first—if you're on the road, don't force the start; turn on the hazard lights and pull over to wait for assistance. Regular maintenance and checking the battery status can prevent a lot of trouble.
