Why Isn't My Engine Starting? 7 Possible Causes

There’s nothing like the dread of getting into your car, turning the ignition and realizing...nothing is happening. If you drive a car long enough, chances are you’ll one day experience an engine that simply won’t start. Before you panic, make sure the steering wheel isn’t locked and that there’s gas in the tank. These are small things, but ones that can prevent your car from starting!

If you’ve done both of these things and your car still won’t start, there’s likely an internal issue causing the engine not to start. Fortunately, many of these are relatively simple fixes. Here are some of the other most common issues that may be stalling your engine.

Dead Battery

If your gas tank and steering wheel aren’t at fault, you may be experiencing battery issues. In fact, a dead battery is the most common reason for engine failure. This could be caused by any number of things, like leaving your lights or radio on, which causes the battery to drain. Fortunately, you can test whether the battery is dead with a battery tester. You can also try using jumper cables to get the engine started if you don’t have a tester.

Corroded Battery

Corrosion can also prevent wires from making a complete connection with the battery. Check to see whether your battery posts are clean. If they look corroded, they probably need to be cleaned before your car will start.

Clogged Fuel Filter

Your fuel filter is important, because this is what keeps dirt and rust from reaching your engine. When the fuel filter isn’t changed often enough, it can cause an irregular fuel flow. This can cause your engine to shudder and eventually not start. Luckily, this is a simple fix.

Broken/Cracked Distributor Cap

The distributor cap is what routes voltage from the ignition coil to the spark plugs. In more basic terms, the distributor cap is an essential part of the ignition system, so if it’s broken, cracked, or dirty, it won’t do its part in igniting the spark plugs. But because it handles high-voltage pulses, the distributor cap wears out easily. If your engine isn’t starting, your cap may need replacing.

Damaged Ignition Coil

The ignition coil is another essential piece of the ignition system. It connects to the rotor, which is housed in the distributor cap. The coil is another component that sees a lot of high-voltage activity. The ignition coil may be damaged and require replacing if your engine isn’t starting.

Failed Timing Belt

A bad timing belt can have disastrous effects on your car if left unattended. Typically, manufacturers will note when timing belts should be replaced. (Often every 5 years or 60,000 miles, but check your owner’s manual.) The timing belt synchronizes how certain parts move within the engine and ensures that parts that shouldn’t touch don’t touch. Failure to change the timing belt could ruin the whole engine.

Bad Starter Motor

Since the starter motor is what’s responsible for making the engine turn, your car won’t go very far without it. If that’s the case, you’ll need to replace it.

If you’re a handy person or feel comfortable under the hood, you may be able to replace these parts yourself. Otherwise, once you’ve exhausted the possibility of a dead battery, locked steering wheel, or empty tank, you’ll probably want to call in the help of a trusted mechanic.

Insurance doesn’t cover regular repairs you might need simply from putting wear and tear on your car. However, one insurance feature that can be handy is roadside assistance. Roadside assistance helps if your car breaks down or if you get stranded somewhere. Some insurers include this in their policies, so check to see if you’re covered!

Need to find a better insurance plan? Find out how Auto-Savings can help.