What Causes a Car to Fail to Start with Abnormal Noises?
2 Answers
Reasons why a car fails to start with abnormal noises are as follows: Battery Failure: The battery has malfunctioned and cannot store power. If you only hear the sound of the starter when trying to start the car, it is highly likely that the car cannot start due to a dead battery. Starter Motor Failure: The starter motor has malfunctioned and cannot drive the flywheel to rotate. Check whether the starter motor is working when attempting to start the vehicle. Ignition System Failure: The vehicle's ignition system has malfunctioned. Remove one of the ignition high-voltage wires from the engine, insert an old spark plug or a pen-shaped metal rod into the spark plug cap, and place the spark plug body or metal rod close to the engine's metal part. Start the engine and observe whether there is a high-voltage spark. If there isn't, check for issues with the ignition system.
My old car used to have trouble starting and made squeaking noises, most likely due to a dead battery. When the battery voltage drops after prolonged use, the starter can't function properly, producing clicking or buzzing sounds. It could also be that the starter itself is stuck, causing friction noises from gear wear. I've encountered this several times, once even on the highway, forcing me to pull over and check. First, inspect if the battery terminals are loose and try tightening them with a wrench. If they're secure, the battery might be dead and need charging or replacement. Avoid repeatedly turning the key to start the car, as this can damage other components. This issue is especially common in winter, so regular battery maintenance and voltage checks every two years can prevent problems. Difficulty starting with unusual noises is a warning sign—address it early to avoid worsening issues. For safety, if this happens, turn off the power and call for assistance rather than risking roadside repairs.
