As a car owner, there’s nothing more frustrating than getting into your vehicle and turning the key, only to be met with pure silence. But what are the most common reasons why your car won’t start? Here are five potential culprits! Along with tips from the experienced Inverness mechanics at IT Garage Services on how to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.
Dead Battery – Tips from Your Inverness Mechanics
A dead battery is one of the most likely culprits for a car not starting.
Your battery stores electrical energy that’s used to power the starter motor and other electrical components in your car. So, if the battery’s dead, your car won’t start. This can happen for a few reasons. Such as leaving your headlights on or not driving your car for an extended period.
If you suspect that your battery is dead, there are a few steps you can take to check and resolve the issue. One option is to use jumper cables to jump-start your car with the help of another vehicle. Alternatively, you may need to replace the battery entirely. To prevent a dead battery from happening in the future, make sure to keep your car’s battery and charging system in good condition by having them checked regularly by a professional mechanic as your friendly local Inverness garage IT Garage Services.
Faulty Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is responsible for sending power from the battery to the starter motor when you turn the key. If it’s not working properly, your car won’t start.
A faulty ignition switch can be caused by problems like worn-out or damaged electrical contacts, a worn-out key, or a broken or worn-out switch. To diagnose the issue, try jiggling the key in the ignition to see if it’s loose or worn. If this doesn’t work, you may need to replace the ignition switch. Replacing the ignition switch can be a complex process, so it’s probably best left to a professional mechanic to get the issue fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your car’s electrical system.
Bad Starter Motor – Tips from Your Inverness Mechanics
The starter motor is responsible for turning the engine over when you start the car, and if it’s not working properly, your car won’t start. Worn-out gear, a corroded connection, or a burned-out coil are the most likely culprits for your starter motor not working. To diagnose the issue, try tapping the starter motor GENTLY with a hammer to see if this jolts it into action.
If this doesn’t work, you may need to replace the starter motor entirely. Again, this process can be tricky, so it’s best left to someone like our trusted Inverness mechanics at IT Garage Services. In the meantime, you may be able to get your car started by using jumper cables or a push-start.
Fuel System Issues
A clogged fuel filter or an empty fuel tank can prevent your car from starting. The fuel filter is responsible for removing impurities from the fuel. If it’s clogged, fuel won’t flow properly to the engine. Similarly, if your fuel tank is empty or nearly empty, there simply won’t be enough fuel to power the engine. Try checking the fuel gauge to see how much petrol is in your tank and inspecting the fuel filter for any signs of blockage. A faulty fuel filter needs to be replaced. If the issue is with an empty fuel tank, obviously, refuel and away you’ll go!
If either of these measures doesn’t work, contact our friendly team at IT Garage Services and our professional mechanics will be happy to diagnose and fix the fault with your vehicle.
Electrical Problems – Tips from Your Inverness Mechanics
Electrical issues could also be the culprit behind a car that won’t start. A blown fuse can prevent power from flowing to essential components, such as the ignition system or fuel pump, causing your car to stall. Another common electrical issue preventing your car from starting could be a faulty alternator. The alternator is responsible for keeping the battery charged and powering the electrical systems in your car. Try checking and replacing any blown fuses or testing the alternator to see if it’s providing enough power to the battery. If you’re not comfortable working with electrical systems, it’s best to leave this job to professional Inverness mechanics like IT Garage Services who can diagnose and fix the issue safely and effectively.
IT Garage Services – Your Local Inverness Garage Specialists
If your car won’t start, don’t panic! Follow the above tips from our expert Inverness mechanics at IT Garage Services, and you’ll be back on the road before you know it. And if you need additional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us for professional car repair services.
- Car servicing Inverness.
- MOTs Inverness.
- Brake tests and repair.
- Fast fit services Inverness.
- Diagnostics and repair.
- and many more local garage services that’ll keep your used car in tip-top condition.
Where to find the best garage near me?
You can find the best garage in Inverness – IT Garage Services at 35H Harbour Rd Inverness IV1 1UA
Contact us now to book an appointment or for any enquiries:
01463 229922
Monday – Friday: 8AM to 6PM
Saturday: 8AM to 1PM