What are the reasons why a car won't start when the key is inserted?
2 Answers
The reasons why a car won't start when the key is inserted are: dead battery, no power to the ignition switch's live wire, no power to the starter motor's solenoid live wire, open circuit in the solenoid coil, or loose/corroded wiring connections. First, check the car's battery. If the car can be started by jump-starting, it indicates a dead battery. After charging the battery, check its lifespan. The solutions for a car not starting when the key is inserted are: 1. Press the button on the side of the key to remove the mechanical key; 2. Insert the key into the driver's side door handle and open the door; 3. Place the car key against the lower right corner of the steering wheel and press the start button.
I've encountered similar situations before. The most likely culprit when a car won't start after inserting the key is a battery issue. When the battery is aging or drained from leaving lights on, you'll hear a clicking sound when turning the key but the engine won't respond. In this case, you can use a multimeter to test the voltage - if it's below 12 volts, it means the battery needs charging or replacement. Also, oxidized battery terminals can cause poor contact; just rinse them with boiling water and tighten them. I remember one time I had this problem on a -10°C morning and had to call for emergency jump-start service to get moving. Don't forget to check the starter circuit fuse in the fuse box - if it's blown, you'll need to replace it. While starter motor failure is rare, it does happen in older vehicles, accompanied by a whirring sound when attempting to start.
