Why does the dashboard show an electric car and the engine won't start?
3 Answers
Dashboard showing an electric car symbol while the engine fails to start may indicate dashboard circuit malfunction. Here are relevant introductions about automotive instruments: 1. Definition of automotive dashboard: The car dashboard is a device that reflects the working status of various vehicle systems. Common indicators include fuel warning light, washer fluid indicator, electronic throttle light, front/rear fog lamp indicators, and warning lights. 2. Components of automotive dashboard: Common warnings include door ajar alert, parking brake reminder, seatbelt reminder, engine self-check, lubricant status check, ABS system check, airbag inspection, battery warning, and fuel level indicator. Then comes the lighting system - turn signals, high/low beams, front/rear fog lamps, and position lamps.
I've just dealt with a similar issue. Dashboard lights on indicate there's power in the circuit, but the engine won't start—nine times out of ten it's a battery problem. Starting requires a high current draw, and aged batteries with reduced capacity can't handle it; if there's no sound, the starter might be stuck or burnt out. Check wiring connections—loose or heavily corroded battery terminals could be the culprit. For gasoline vehicles, it might be a fuel pump failure or spark plug leakage. Try jump-starting the battery; if it works, get the battery repaired ASAP. If not, it could be a relay failure or anti-theft lock. Don't force it—safety first—call a tow truck to a professional shop for inspection.
I've encountered many such incidents while driving a taxi. The dashboard shows normal power, but the car won't start. A common issue is an aging battery, especially frequent in winter; if there's insufficient current during startup, there's no response. Listen for any cranking sound from the engine? If there is, it might be a short circuit in the electrical system; if not, check if the starter or ignition switch is faulty. For automatic transmission cars, make sure the gear is in P or N position. A simple solution is to try jump-starting with jumper cables from a friend's car; preventively, maintain the battery regularly, use a multimeter to check voltage, replace it every three to five years, and during maintenance, also check the fuel system and sensors.
