What to Do When the Car Battery Has Power but the Engine Won't Start?

[AlessandraMarie]

Here are the reasons and solutions for a car battery having power but the engine not starting: 1. For automatic transmission models, it is likely because the gear is not in the P position. Most models are set by the manufacturer to prevent ignition if the gear is not in P, mainly for safety reasons. This is to avoid the car lurching forward if the gear is in D or R when starting. Solution: Shift the gear to P and try starting again. 2. Not pressing the brake pedal. This design is also for safety reasons. Solution: Press the brake pedal while starting. 3. Steering wheel lock. This is an anti-theft feature of the car. If the steering wheel is turned after the engine is turned off, the car's computer will assume a theft attempt and automatically activate the anti-theft function. In this case, not only will the engine not start, but the steering wheel will also be locked. Solution: Turn the steering wheel slightly while turning the key to start the engine.