What to Do When the Car Key Dashboard Doesn't Light Up and the Car Won't Start?
2 Answers
You can check the car battery and fuses. Here are the reasons why the car key dashboard doesn't light up and the car won't start: 1. Battery issues: For example, the battery has reached the end of its lifespan, the battery terminals are loose, making poor contact, or the terminals may be oxidized. 2. Fuse issues: The starter fuse may be blown. 3. Dashboard CPU damage: The dashboard is a rigid panel or structural component used to install instruments and related devices. Dashboards can be categorized by type into screen-type dashboards, frame-type dashboards, passage-type dashboards, and cabinet-type dashboards. Indicators on the dashboard include the parking indicator, door status indicator, various dashboard indicators, battery indicator, fuel indicator, and washer fluid indicator, among others.
When encountering this situation, I usually start by checking the battery. A non-illuminated dashboard is most commonly caused by a dead battery. First, try turning on the headlights—if they appear very dim or don't light up at all, it's almost certainly a battery issue. In this case, you can ask a friend to jump-start your car. When connecting the jumper cables, be careful not to reverse the polarity: red cable to the positive terminal and black cable to the negative terminal. If the car starts after the jump, remember to drive for a while to let the alternator recharge the battery. If the headlights are working normally, the problem might be a blown fuse—check the fuse box in the cabin for the fuse controlling the dashboard. Additionally, a dead smart key can also cause this issue, especially in cars with push-button start. Try placing the key close to the start button; if that doesn't work, switch to the spare key. It's a good idea to keep an emergency jump starter in the trunk so you won't be caught off guard if the car breaks down in the middle of the night.
