Top 6 Reasons Your Car Won’t Start (And What You Can Do About It) | Keller, TX
Few things are more frustrating than getting in your car, turning the key (or pushing the button)… and nothing happens. No click. No crank. No engine. Just silence—or worse, a strange sound you’ve never heard before.
If your car won’t start, don’t panic. There are a handful of common causes—and knowing what to look for can save you time, stress, and possibly a tow.
Here are the top 6 reasons your vehicle won’t start, and what to do next if you're stuck—especially if you’re in the Keller, TX area.
1. Dead Battery
What it looks like:
Total silence or a single click when turning the key
No lights or dashboard display
Radio and accessories not turning on
What to do:
Try jump-starting the vehicle. If it starts, drive it for at least 15–20 minutes. If it doesn’t start again next time, your battery may not be holding a charge—or your alternator isn’t recharging it properly.
When to call:
If jump-starting doesn’t work or the battery dies again quickly, it’s time for a professional battery and charging system test.
2. Faulty Starter
What it looks like:
Repeated clicking noise but engine doesn’t turn over
Lights come on, but nothing happens when turning the key
Occasional starting issues that have gotten worse
What to do:
Unfortunately, a failing starter usually requires replacement. Trying to start the vehicle over and over can make it worse.
When to call:
If everything else seems to work but the engine won’t crank, let a mechanic diagnose it before you get stranded somewhere worse.
3. Bad Ignition Switch
What it looks like:
No response when turning the key
Dashboard lights flicker or shut off randomly
Car sometimes starts, sometimes doesn’t
What to do:
Try jiggling the key gently while turning it (don’t force it). If that helps, your ignition switch may be worn or loose.
When to call:
If you notice inconsistent power or electrical issues tied to starting, it’s time for inspection.
4. Fuel Delivery Issues
What it looks like:
Engine cranks but won’t start
Smell of fuel or “coughing” sound when trying to start
Car ran rough before dying
What to do:
Check your gas gauge (it happens!). If you recently fueled up and it still won’t start, it could be a bad fuel pump, clogged filter, or fuel injector issue.
When to call:
Fuel system issues are rarely DIY fixes—get a diagnostic to avoid guessing.
5. Security System Lockout
What it looks like:
Car won’t start but electronics work
Key fob warning lights or anti-theft indicators
Sudden no-start after unlocking or replacing battery
What to do:
Try locking and unlocking the car again. Some newer cars need a key fob reset or specific sequence to reset the immobilizer.
When to call:
If your car won’t recognize your key or fob, a mobile diagnostic can save you a trip to the dealership.
6. Vehicle Not Fully in Park or Neutral
What it looks like:
Nothing happens when you try to start the car
No crank, no click—but lights and electronics work
Happens especially after shifting quickly or parking on a slope
What to do:
Make sure the gear selector is fully in Park (P) or Neutral (N). Sometimes, especially in older vehicles or worn shifters, the system won’t allow the engine to start unless it’s perfectly aligned.
Try wiggling the shifter slightly, then attempt to start again. In push-to-start cars, press the brake firmly while shifting.
When to call:
If the issue keeps happening or the shifter feels loose or unresponsive, you may have a worn shift cable or sensor that needs adjustment or replacement.
When Your Car Won’t Start, We Come to You
At Mobile Elite Auto, we help drivers across Keller and nearby areas get moving again—without waiting on a tow or losing half your day at a shop.
We offer full diagnostics, battery testing, and on-site repairs whenever possible. If your car won’t start, don’t guess—let us check it out and get you rolling again.
Call (817) 637-9160 or schedule online at mobileeliteauto.com
