What are the reasons why the car always fails to start?
4 Answers
Engine failure to start is one of the most common car problems. There are two scenarios for failure to start: one is when you can hear the starter motor turning, but the engine does not start. The other is when there is no sound at all after turning the key. The details are as follows: 1. The first scenario: The starter works, but the engine does not. This situation is more complicated because it could be caused by any one of multiple faults. It is rare for two or more faults to occur simultaneously, but it cannot be ruled out entirely. (1) First, it could be an electrical or electronic fault. The occurrence is usually very sudden, with no prior signs. Electrical faults include: blown fuse, open circuit in the high-voltage coil, open circuit in the low-voltage circuit, detached central ignition wire, leaking distributor rotor, or damaged spark plug. Electronic faults mainly refer to the central computer control board losing functionality. (2) Then, it could be a fuel system fault. Engine shutdown caused by fuel system faults often comes with symptoms like the engine feeling weak or the accelerator pedal feeling unresponsive. Possible fuel system fault locations include: fuel pump failure, blocked fuel line, clogged fuel filter, carburetor failure, or damaged injector, etc. Sometimes, the fuel tank might be empty without the owner realizing it. Adding a few liters of gasoline can solve all the issues. (3) Lastly, it could also be a mechanical fault. Common mechanical faults include: timing belt breakage, cylinder leakage with no pressure, etc. 2. The second scenario: The starter does not work or barely works. In this case, the first thing to check is the battery. There are many methods to check it. Connect the battery's positive and negative terminals, then turn the key to start. If the voltage indicator suddenly drops below 8 volts when the power is connected, the battery definitely has a problem. If you don’t have a voltmeter, you can use a 12-volt small bulb and a short piece of power wire instead. The method is the same—if the bulb suddenly becomes significantly dimmer, it also indicates an aging battery. In many cases, the battery may already be failing but can still power the headlights. This is not surprising. Only at the moment of ignition can the battery's performance truly be tested because that is when it bears the maximum load.
I've been driving for decades, and issues with the car not starting are all too common, mainly stemming from the ignition system. Spark plugs can accumulate carbon deposits or become eroded over time, weakening the ignition. Another issue is aging high-voltage wires causing leakage; I once experienced this—it made a clicking sound when starting but wouldn't ignite. The fuel system can also be problematic; a clogged filter or a faulty fuel pump can prevent fuel delivery, making it impossible to start. The battery is crucial, especially in winter when old batteries are prone to losing charge, leading to insufficient voltage to crank the engine. I recommend checking spark plugs every 50,000 km and replacing them promptly. Car batteries typically last 3-5 years, so replacing them early can prevent failures. Additionally, if the starter motor is stuck or worn, it can make starting the car difficult, in which case you'll need to call a tow truck for repairs. Always avoid using low-quality fuel, as impurities can clog the fuel system. Regular maintenance can prevent minor issues from turning into major problems.
My little car always lets me down at critical moments, and the failure to start is really annoying. Last time when I tried to start it, there was a clicking sound but it wouldn't fire up. It turned out the battery was nearly dead, with voltage dropping below 10 volts. The starter motor could also be faulty - worn carbon brushes can cause a rattling noise without engine cranking. A failed ignition coil is the worst - no spark means the car stays dead silent. I've used a multimeter to test the battery - if voltage reads below 12 volts, it's time for replacement. Sensor issues like faulty crankshaft position sensor signals can prevent ECU from allowing startup. High humidity can cause short circuits too - my friend's car had this problem constantly during rainy season. Simple prevention: avoid frequent short trips and take longer drives to fully charge the battery. Starting difficulties may indicate multiple component failures - don't attempt DIY repairs, get professional diagnostics for safety.
I've been driving a family car for many years, and most of the time when it won't start, it's due to lack of maintenance. If spark plugs aren't replaced for a long time, severe carbon buildup can lead to weak ignition. A clogged fuel filter restricts fuel supply, making it hard to start. An old battery loses capacity and may fail to crank. I regularly check my car and test the battery during oil changes to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Once, I cleaned oxidized battery terminals and successfully started the engine. Avoid leaving the car parked for too long, as batteries self-discharge. Neglecting maintenance can cause the starter motor to rust and seize, leading to expensive repairs. A cost-effective solution is a comprehensive annual service - small spending prevents major repairs. For safety, remember not to force-start a struggling engine; towing to a repair shop is the most reliable solution.
