Why does the car dashboard flash and fail to start?
2 Answers
When the car dashboard flashes and the engine fails to start, it is usually caused by a dead battery. If you need to start the engine, you can call for assistance to jump-start the car. The battery is a crucial component in a vehicle that stores electrical energy. Without a functioning battery, the car cannot operate normally. When the engine is off, the battery supplies power to all electrical devices in the car and is also responsible for starting the engine. During engine startup, the starter motor, fuel supply system, and ignition system all require electricity to function. The battery must deliver a high current during engine startup. If the battery's performance is poor, it may result in difficulty starting the engine or even complete failure to start.
Once while driving, I encountered a situation where the dashboard lights were flickering and the car wouldn't start, which really startled me. It was definitely a dead battery - probably caused by leaving the headlights on or the cold weather draining the power. When turning the key, the dashboard would flash but the engine wouldn't crank, just making a buzzing sound. I had to get a jump start from another car or call for roadside assistance. After getting it started, everything was fine. To prevent this, I've developed the habit of checking that all electrical components are off before locking the car, and avoid using the radio while parked. During regular maintenance, I ask the mechanic to test the battery voltage, and check for aging every two years to replace it if needed - this helps avoid embarrassing situations in freezing weather. Keeping the battery terminals clean also prevents corrosion from interfering with current flow and avoids additional troubles.
