What to Do When an Automatic Transmission Car Suddenly Won't Start?

[Lydia]

Call for roadside assistance and wait for a tow truck. Ensure the car is in neutral (or N gear) and the parking brake is released. Take the car to a 4S shop for a comprehensive inspection. Use "jumper cables" to connect to another car's battery for a jump start.

[MacAlexa]

I just encountered this situation where my car stalled in the neighborhood, which really scared me. If an automatic transmission suddenly won't start, there could be several common issues. First, check if the gear is in P or N; it won't start if it's not in the correct position. Second, the battery might be dead—see if the headlights still work. If the lights are dim or not working, it's likely a dead battery; try jump-starting it with jumper cables with the help of a friend. Third, the starter motor might be broken—if you turn the key and hear no sound, it might need repair. Other possibilities include a dead key fob or the anti-theft system being activated; try removing and reinserting the key to restart. If this happens, don't panic—turn off all electrical devices to save power, turn on the hazard lights, and wait for help. Regular battery maintenance can reduce the risk of such failures.