What are the reasons why a Fit car has power but won't start?
3 Answers
Here are the reasons why a Fit car has power but won't start: Steering wheel locked preventing startup: The steering wheel being locked and preventing startup is a common anti-theft feature found in many small cars. After removing the key, if the steering wheel isn't straightened or has been turned, the self-locking function activates, causing the steering lock pin to engage with the steering column. This makes the steering wheel immovable and prevents the engine from starting. Fuel flow obstruction: This typically manifests as no fuel pressure in the engine's fuel supply line. At extremely low temperatures, water mixing with debris can block the fuel line, resulting in startup failure. Poor ignition system performance: In cold weather, due to low intake air temperature, fuel atomization in the cylinder is poor. Combined with insufficient ignition energy, this can lead to cylinder flooding - where excessive fuel accumulates in the cylinder, exceeding the flammable concentration limit and preventing ignition.
Last time my Fit also encountered this situation, the battery voltage was normal but it just wouldn't start. Later, it was found that the starter had an issue, making a clicking sound but the engine wouldn't turn. The mechanic said that carbon brush wear in the Fit's starter is a common problem, especially in cars over five years old. It could also be due to burnt contacts in the ignition switch, which prevents the signal from reaching the starting system. The most easily overlooked issue is a faulty gear position sensor; if the P gear isn't recognized, the car won't start. It's recommended to first try pressing the brake hard and shifting gears a few times. If the dashboard doesn't show the P gear, then the sensor needs to be checked. Of course, a fuel pump failure is also possible; listen for a humming sound under the rear seat during startup to see if the fuel pump is working.
Last week, my neighbor Old Wang's Fit encountered this exact issue—the battery had power, all dashboard lights were on, but it just wouldn't start. I accompanied him to the repair shop, and we identified three critical problems: first, a frost-like oxidation layer on the battery terminals, which appeared conductive but actually caused excessive resistance; second, a faulty starter solenoid coil, where you could only hear the relay clicking; and third, a common issue with older Fits—the fuel pump relay welding problem, where pulling it out and tapping it could buy a few more days of use. For such older cars, the crankshaft position sensor is the most prone to failure—without it, the ignition signal gets disrupted. Oh, and one more thing: those who've installed aftermarket anti-theft devices should be cautious, as false triggers can also lock the engine.
