What to Do When the Car Fails to Start?
2 Answers
Use another car's battery to jump-start. This is the first choice for most people and sometimes the only option. Be careful not to reverse the connection order when jump-starting. Have someone sit in the driver's seat, turn on the ignition, press the clutch pedal, shift into second gear, and then have others push the car. Now there is an emergency jump-start power bank that can be directly clamped onto the battery to start the car. It can only start the car once or twice; beyond that, it won't work.
Last time my car failed to start during my commute, I was completely stunned. The most common reasons are a dead or aging battery, which frequent drivers like me often encounter. The check method is simple: first, see if the headlights are dim or if any abnormal indicator lights on the dashboard are on. If they are, you need to measure the battery voltage—if it's below 12 volts, it's basically a no-go. This happens more easily in cold weather, especially during long winter drives. Starter issues are also common; listen to the sound when starting—if there's no clicking sound, the starter might be stuck or the wiring loose. Fuel problems shouldn't be ignored either, such as a clogged fuel pump or carbon buildup on the spark plugs. My solution is to keep a portable jump starter in the car and try jump-starting; if that doesn't work, call for roadside assistance or head to a repair shop immediately. Regularly check the battery terminals for cleanliness every month to avoid corrosion and dust buildup, which can also extend its lifespan.
