Introduction
Picture this. You’re in a hurry to get to work, but your car won’t start. You turn the key, the engine cranks, but it just won’t start. The frustration and stress can be overwhelming, not to mention the possible expenses that come with getting your car repaired. If this situation sounds familiar, don’t worry. You’re not alone and this article will guide you through the process of troubleshooting and fixing the issue.
This article is written for car owners who may have limited knowledge about car maintenance, but want to take a crack at DIY solutions before seeking professional assistance. In this article, we will cover the common reasons why a car may be cranking but not starting, provide step-by-step DIY solutions for fixing these issues, discuss the complexities of failed ignition systems as per mechanic’s perspective, provide pointers for finding a reliable mechanic, and recommend maintenance tasks to prevent future ignition issues.
Troubleshooting Guide: Common Reasons Why Your Car is Cranking but Not Starting
Before we dive further into fixing the issue, let’s figure out why your car is cranking but not starting in the first place. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- A dead battery
- Bad starter
- Fuel delivery issues caused by a clogged fuel filter or fuel pump failure
- Faulty spark plugs or spark plugs that have worn out, preventing the spark from igniting the fuel
- Busted fuel injectors
If you’re facing this issue, the first step is to identify the cause. The easiest way to check if it’s a battery issue is to turn on the headlights. If they come on and shine brightly, then the battery isn’t the problem. However, if they don’t turn on or appear dim, it’s a dead battery that requires a jump start. If it’s not a battery issue, the next possibility could be a bad starter. This depends on the type of sounds you hear when trying to start the car. If the sound appears as a clicking noise, then it’s most likely the starter that needs to be replaced.
To check for fuel delivery issues, you can listen out for a buzzing sound near the gas tank when you turn the ignition. If you hear the noise, then the fuel pump is still working. If not, the issue could be a clogged fuel filter or a faulty fuel pump that needs replacing. If you have an electric fuel pump, you can check the fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge. Otherwise, you can check the fuel injectors of the car.
DIY Solutions: How to Fix a Car That Won’t Start
Some of the issues causing your car to crank but not start can be fixed from the comfort of your own garage. Here are some typical DIY solutions for a few of the most common culprits:
- Dead battery: Jump-start the battery to get your car running. Be sure to keep the car running for at least 30 minutes to enable the alternator to recharge the battery. If you find yourself needing to jump-start your car frequently, it’s time to get a new battery.
- Bad starter: To replace the starter, begin by disconnecting the battery cables, then remove the starter from the engine block. Take the bad starter to an auto parts store to help you find the right replacement. Reconnect the replacement starter back to the engine block using the bolts and nuts you took off the old starter.
- Faulty spark plugs: Open the hood of the car and locate the spark plugs. You may need to refer to your car manual if it isn’t obvious. Remove the plugs and check their status. If there’s visible oil or burnt marks on the tip, then the spark plugs need to be changed. You can use a spark plug wrench to remove and replace them.
Mechanic’s Perspective: Understanding the Complexities of a Failed Ignition
Cars are complex machines and problems may arise that require a mechanic to diagnose and fix. One of these problems is a failed ignition system. The ignition system is a very crucial part of the car as it is responsible for starting the engine. The system includes an ignition coil, spark plugs, battery, and other components that work together to ignite the engine. If any of these components fails, the engine may not start at all.
When you take your car to a mechanic, they may use advanced diagnostic tools to identify the issue and provide a solution. They may scan the car’s onboard computer for any error codes, check the battery voltage, test the fuel injectors, examine the spark plugs, and other components that make up the ignition system. Based on their diagnosis, they’ll recommend the necessary repairs. Ignition coils and spark plugs can be replaced using tools similar to those used for DIY solutions. However, if the issue is more complex, mechanics may need to carry out more technical repairs.
SOS: When Your Car Refuses to Start
It can be frustrating when your DIY solutions don’t work, and finding yourself needing a professional to diagnose and fix the issue. Here’s what to do when you can’t fix the car on your own:
- Get recommendations on reliable mechanics – Start by asking friends and family members about reputable auto repair shops in your area. You can also check online reviews and ratings.
- Be cautious of scams – Mechanics may try to take advantage of you by adding unnecessary repairs or overcharging for services. Ask questions, get written estimates and know the market rates before taking your car in for repairs.
- Be specific about the issue – Tell the mechanic in detail the issues and the solutions you’ve tried. This gives them a better understanding of the issue and saves time and money.
Preventing Future Issues: Maintenance for Your Car’s Ignition System
Prevention is often better than cure, and this is true when it comes to your car’s ignition system. Here are important maintenance tasks you should have in mind:
- Check the battery and cables routinely for corrosion and keep them clean
- Replace oil and air filters regularly
- Replace the spark plugs every 30,000 to 90,000 miles for most cars.
- Use fuel injector cleaner and clean the fuel filter periodically if you’re using dirty fuel or if the air filter is dirty.
- Have your car’s ignition system inspected during tune-ups or general maintenance.
Conclusion
Dodging when your car cranks but won’t start can be a stressful issue to deal with. However, identifying the cause and finding the right DIY solution can save you time and money in the long run. If you can’t fix the issue yourself, don’t worry, you can always find a reliable mechanic and have the issue diagnosed and fixed. As a car owner, it’s important to keep the maintenance of your ignition system in mind to prevent future issues. We hope this article has provided valuable insights that’ll help you get back on the road safely and quickly.