Car Won't Start? 7 Common Causes and What to Do
Your car won't start — now what? Learn the 7 most common reasons cars fail to start, from dead batteries to bad starters, and when you need a mechanic.
You turn the key(or push the button) and...nothing.Or maybe a clicking sound.Or the engine cranks but won't catch. A car that won't start is stressful, but the cause is usually one of these seven common issues.
1. Dead or Weak Battery
This is the #1 reason cars won't start, especially in Connecticut winters. Car batteries typically last 3–5 years, and cold temperatures dramatically reduce their cranking power. Signs: dim dashboard lights, slow cranking, or a clicking sound when turning the key.
What to do: Try a jump start. If the car starts but dies again after shutting off, the battery needs replacement. We test batteries free of charge.
2. Corroded Battery Terminals
Even a good battery can fail to deliver power if the cable connections are covered in white or green corrosion . This buildup creates resistance that prevents electricity from flowing to the starter.
What to do: Clean the terminals with a wire brush and baking soda solution, or have them professionally cleaned and coated with anti-corrosion spray.
3. Failed Starter Motor
If you hear a single loud click (or a rapid clicking) when turning the key but the engine doesn't crank at all, the starter motor or solenoid may have failed. Starters eventually wear out — they have a finite lifespan.
What to do: This requires professional diagnosis and replacement. Tapping the starter with a wrench can sometimes get one more start, but it's a temporary fix.
4. Bad Alternator
The alternator charges your battery while driving.If it fails, the battery drains and eventually can't start the car. Signs: battery light on the dash while driving, flickering headlights, or a car that starts fine in the morning but won't restart after errands.
What to do: An alternator output test confirms whether it's charging properly. Replacement typically runs $350–$700 including labor.
5. Fuel System Issues
If the engine cranks normally but won't fire, it may not be getting fuel. Common causes include a failed fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, or empty tank (the gauge may be inaccurate).
What to do: Listen for a brief hum from the rear of the car when you turn the key to "ON" (before cranking). That's the fuel pump priming. No hum = possible fuel pump failure.
6. Ignition System Problems
Worn spark plugs, a failed ignition coil, or a bad crankshaft position sensor can all prevent the engine from starting.The engine usually cranks but won't catch or fires briefly then dies.
What to do: These require diagnostic equipment to pinpoint. Our scan tools read ignition-related DTCs and we can test individual coils and sensors.
7. Security System Lockout
Modern anti - theft systems can sometimes get confused and lock out the engine.This happens when the key fob battery is low, after a battery disconnect, or when using a non-programmed key.
What to do: Try locking and unlocking with the fob, waiting 10 minutes, or disconnecting the battery for 30 seconds. If none of that works, professional key programming may be needed — a service we offer.
Quick Diagnostic Checklist
| Symptom | Likely Cause |
|---|---|
| Nothing happens at all | Dead battery or loose connection |
| Clicking sound | Weak battery or bad starter |
| Cranks but won't start | Fuel, ignition, or sensor issue |
| Starts then immediately dies | Security lockout or fuel delivery |
| Grinding noise when starting | Worn starter gear |
We'll Get You Running
At Strong's Alignment Services, we diagnose no-start conditions every day. We'll test your battery, starter, alternator, and fuel system to find the exact cause — not just throw parts at it.Honest answers, fair prices.
Call: (860) 569 - 1440 | 195 Silver Lane, East Hartford, CT 06118
Need this service? Visit our Diagnostics service page →
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