Why Can't an Automatic Transmission Car Start?
2 Answers
Automatic transmission car fails to start for the following reasons: 1. Smart key battery dead: When the vehicle's smart key runs out of power, the key's transmission power becomes very low, making it difficult for the in-car sensor to detect it. As a result, the one-button start cannot complete the ignition. 2. Gear not in P position: For automatic transmission vehicles (AT, CVT, AMT), manufacturers specify in the manual that the gear must be in the P position when starting. 3. Steering wheel locked: Steering wheel lock is a simple anti-theft function. When the car is turned off, turning the steering wheel from the centered position to a certain angle in one direction will lock the steering wheel.
I've been through this before, and it's so frustrating! The most common issue is the battery—either it's dead and can't start the engine, or you left the lights on and drained it. You can ask a friend to help jump-start it. Another possibility is the starter motor; if you don't hear the clicking sound, it's probably not working. Also, many automatic cars won't start unless they're in P or N gear, so check the gear position. Here's a small tip: if the steering wheel is locked and the key won't turn, try turning the steering wheel while starting the car. If the battery was recently replaced, check if the alternator belt is loose. Lastly, don’t overlook the fuel pump—if you hear a weakening humming sound before shutting off the engine, be cautious. My car had this exact issue last year.
