Why does the engine keep flashing but fail to start?
2 Answers
There are several reasons why the engine keeps flashing but fails to start: Fuel supply system issues: Clogged low-pressure fuel line, loose or leaking fuel pipes, air in high-pressure fuel line, poor technical condition of the injector, incorrect injection timing angle. Starting system issues: Power supply failure, poor contact of the electromagnetic switch, poor contact between the starter motor commutator and brushes, clutch slippage in the starter transmission mechanism. Insufficient cylinder compression pressure: Damaged cylinder head gasket causing air leakage, improper valve closure leading to air leakage, worn piston and cylinder liner causing air leakage. Insufficient air intake: Clogged air filter element.
I was totally confused when I first encountered this situation too. The engine just coughs but won't start when you turn the key, right? Most likely the battery is to blame, especially if the dashboard lights flicker during cold starts - that's basically a sign of weak charge. I remember one time at minus 10+ degrees Celsius, my old buddy (car) kept flickering until it completely died, and we had to use jumper cables to revive it. Could also be bad spark plugs - like my cousin's car last year with 100,000 km on it, when we took them out the electrodes were completely worn down. If this happens right after refueling, maybe the fuel pump screen is clogged and can't draw gas - my mechanic friend says they see this all the time. Cars that mostly do short trips need to be especially careful, as insufficient charging from the alternator really shortens battery life.
