What to Do When the Car Has Power but Won't Start?
2 Answers
When the car has power but won't start, it's usually due to a fault in the CU or control circuit. Here are some extended troubleshooting steps: 1. If the battery has sufficient charge, check the starter's fuse and relay. 2. The issue may be caused by poor contact in the starter solenoid coil - try gently tapping it with a short metal pipe. 3. If the car key won't turn and the steering wheel is locked, this prevents vehicle starting. 4. There might be poor contact in the throttle wiring - check the thin red or green wires inside the thicker black wire running from the handlebar to the controller (the thin black wire should be fine).
As a veteran driver with twenty years of experience, I've encountered quite a few situations where the car has power but fails to start. Generally, the first step is to ensure the battery voltage is stable. If the headlights are still bright but the engine doesn't respond, it's likely an issue with the starting system. Check if the automatic transmission is not in P gear or if the brake pedal isn't fully depressed, as this can sometimes trigger the safety lock mechanism. If there's still no response, listen for a 'click' sound during startup—this can indicate whether the starter motor is jammed or the wiring is broken. I've personally inspected the starter relay, which is located in the fuse box; if the relay is burnt out, the current won't reach the motor. Another common cause is wear and tear on the ignition switch, leading to poor contact. For prevention, avoid excessive discharge, regularly clean the connections, and extend the battery's lifespan. If simple checks don't resolve the issue, don't force it—head to a reliable repair shop immediately, as professional equipment can diagnose wiring harness or anti-theft system failures.
