4 Reasons Your Car Might Not Start
Posted April 10, 2023
When you turn the key and your car won’t start, it can be an immense frustration. According to Carsurance, the average car owner keeps their vehicle for 8.4 years, which is up from five years just a few decades ago. Modern cars are better built and better maintained, which means they will last longer. A modern car is also safer and less likely to get into an accident. With that information, here are a few reasons why your car might not be starting.
1. Your Battery Is Dead
The infuriating low grinding of a worn-down battery is something we’ve all experienced at least once in our lives. Fortunately, the trigger for this seldom needs a car repair: A quick jump and a half-hour of driving should be all that’s needed for the alternator to recharge the battery. However, it’s still something you should get checked out by a professional to ensure there is nothing wrong with your battery.
2. Your Alternator is Shot
A dead battery, dim lights, frequent stalling, and malfunctioning accessories are all common signs that your alternator is dying. If you have a bad alternator, it’s not something you want to ignore. The longer you wait to take it to a mechanic, the more money you can expect to pay for repairs. Driving with a bad alternator can put you and others on the road in danger.
3. Starter Motor isn’t Working
Your starter motor could be worn out or otherwise bad. If your starter motor has gone bad, you’re going to hear it grind but fail to crank your engine. This could be caused by your starter not lining up right, missing gear teeth, or a faulty solenoid. This can also be a symptom of a dying battery: a starter motor that grinds before your engine cranks.
4. Jammed Steering Lock
If you can’t turn your key, there’s a good chance your steering lock is jammed. This may be a relatively simple fix and one that doesn’t require a major car repair. If your steering lock is jammed, try wiggling your wheel left and right gently until the lock unjams. If you’re having any luck, it’s best to take it to the car repair shop so that they can evaluate the issue and fix it.
A car that doesn’t start is a major problem for many reasons. We depend on our cars everyday to take us to the places we need to go. If you’re experiencing any of these problems above, contact Keller Bros Auto Repair. We offer car repair services you can trust!
Categories: Car Care Tips
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