Why Can't the Car Start After Being Parked?
2 Answers
Car failure to start after being parked may be due to a dead battery. Below are relevant tips for preventing battery depletion: 1. Electrolyte level: It's best to check the battery every two weeks during vehicle inactivity, such as inspecting the electrolyte height. Generally, the battery's electrolyte level must be 10-15mm above the plates; add distilled water promptly if insufficient. 2. Maintain adequate tire inflation: Prolonged stationary parking can cause localized pressure on tires, potentially rendering them unusable over time. The best way to avoid this is to periodically adjust tire positions during parking to distribute continuous pressure on specific areas.
Having driven for so many years, I've encountered quite a few situations where the car wouldn't start after parking. The most common issue is battery-related. When the car sits idle for too long, the battery gradually loses charge, especially in cold weather when battery performance declines, making it unable to start after just one night. Once, I forgot to turn off the reading light, and by morning, the battery was completely dead. Another possibility is a faulty starter motor—either there's no sound when trying to start, or it just hums without engaging. The fuel system can also be problematic, such as an unnoticed empty fuel tank or a broken fuel pump, which prevents fuel from reaching the engine. My advice is to turn off all electrical devices when parking, regularly check the battery's health, and replace it every three to five years. Get a maintenance check before cold weather sets in, and if problems persist, don't hesitate to call a towing service.
