Why can the car key unlock but the car won't start?
2 Answers
Here are the reasons why the car key can unlock but the car won't start: 1. Battery depletion: The characteristic symptom is that the starter begins to turn but the rotation speed is insufficient, or the starter only makes noise without turning. Low temperatures in winter and forgetting to turn off certain electrical devices can prevent the vehicle from starting, especially when used for long periods of short-distance, low-speed driving in winter, causing the battery voltage to drop below the rated value, making starting and normal operation impossible. 2. Gasoline flow obstruction: Do not wait until the gasoline is almost empty to refuel. The characteristic symptom is no oil pressure in the engine fuel supply pipe. 3. Poor ignition system performance: The characteristic symptom is poor fuel atomization in the cylinder due to low intake air temperature, especially in very cold weather.
That happened to my car the other day—the key could unlock the door but the engine just wouldn’t start. Most likely, the battery was dead, or maybe the battery terminals were loose, causing poor contact. Check if the dashboard lights come on. If there’s no response at all, it’s probably a power issue. Remember to test the headlights—if they’re dim as candles, it’s also a battery problem. If the car just clicks but doesn’t start, the starter might be faulty or the fuel tank could be empty (don’t ask me how I know—who hasn’t made the dumb mistake of forgetting to refuel?). If you smell gasoline or see white smoke from the exhaust when trying to start, there’s likely an issue with the ignition system. Oh, and don’t be foolish trying to start the car in D gear—make sure it’s in P. As a quick fix, try jump-starting it with another car. If that doesn’t work, you’ll have to call a tow truck.
