Why Is My Car Not Starting?
From a trip downtown to a weekend getaway, facing a car that won't start can easily ruin your day. Aside from throwing a wrench in your plans, a car that won't turn on can warrant expensive service and require you to call a tow truck for transportation. While car problems can suddenly creep up that prevent your car from starting, others gradually worsen over time. Here are some common issues that may explain why your car isn't going anywhere.
Dead Battery
Most modern car batteries will last three years. Some can last up to five years with proper care or if you drive your car in a fairly mild climate. Extreme temperatures can quickly zap the battery of its power and reduce its lifespan by two years or more. To ensure longevity, you can have a technician check the battery's power levels when you take your car in for an oil change or other routine service. You can also use tools to check the battery on your own at home. You can suspect a problem with the battery if your car has reached 60,000 miles (or more) or if the battery is at the age where it should be replaced.
Faulty Ignition
The ignition coil or ignition switch in your car can also be responsible for it not starting. The ignition essentially turns the voltage in the engine into electric energy. The ignition coils can become damaged and prevent adequate amounts of energy from reaching the engine. You can check for the ignition's health by testing its electric current output with a multimeter.
No Gas
One of the simplest but most common explanations for your car breaking down is simply running out of fuel. If you see that the tank appears to be empty or the engine light illuminates on the dashboard, your car may be out of gasoline. In that case, you will need to have the tank refilled. A technician or third-party towing service can provide roadside assistance.
Clogged Fuel Filter
Problems with the fuel filter can also impair your car's performance. If the fuel filter gets clogged, air and gasoline won't get to the engine. The fuel lines can get contaminated by debris as well, which also affects engine performance. You may notice that your car's fuel economy starts to decline as well if there is a clog in the engine filter.
Contact our dealership today for expert service and vehicle repairs.
