What to Do When a Car Fails to Start?
2 Answers
Solutions for a car that fails to start: 1. Check whether components such as spark plugs and high-voltage wires have gotten wet due to the car being exposed to rain. If so, dry the wet parts before attempting to start the engine; 2. Check if the spark plugs are damaged. If they are, simply replace them with new ones. Generally, the lifespan of spark plugs in modern cars ranges from 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers; 3. Check whether the battery voltage is sufficient. Many modern batteries come with an inspection window. A green color indicates normal operation, black means the battery needs recharging or maintenance, and white means the battery should be replaced.
I've been driving for over a decade and have encountered several no-start situations. Don't panic at first. Get in the car and listen for any sounds when turning the key. If there's complete silence and the dashboard lights don't come on, it's almost certainly a dead battery. When my old car had this issue last time, I opened the hood to check if the battery cables were loose or corroded - clean them if needed. It's best if you can borrow jumper cables to try, or find another car for a jump start. If you hear clicking but the engine doesn't turn over, the starter might be faulty and needs professional repair. Most importantly, avoid repeatedly attempting to start the engine as it may damage components - calling a professional mechanic for diagnosis is more cost-effective than DIY attempts. Developing a habit of regular battery life checks is wise; I now test mine every six months to prevent sudden failures.
