Why your car doesn’t start

Your car not starting is one of the quickest ways to ruin your day. You get behind the wheel, turn the key and nothing – we’ve all been there. Luckily, you can find out why your car doesn’t start and what to do to get back on the road again.

Stuck ignition lock

If you’re unable to turn the ignition key and the car won’t start, then the steering lock may be stuck. This happens when the front tyre on one side of the car is stuck hard against a kerb. To unlock it, simply move the steering wheel slightly from side to side while carefully turning the key back and forth until the lock unlocks. If you can’t move the wheel, step on the brake and gently remove the handbrake, allowing the vehicle to roll away from the curb, then reapply the handbrake and try again.

Broken starter motor

The starter motor is the electrical motor connected to your car’s battery that allows the engine to move when you turn the ignition. If the battery is charged and you hear a loud clicking noise when starting the engine, it could be a faulty starter motor or an electrical wiring fault. You will need a professional to have a look at this and fix it.

Blocked fuel filter

If you have a blocked fuel filter then your fuel can’t get to the engine which means that the engine can’t burn the fuel it needs to start. Your fuel filter should be changed every 15,000 miles to 20,000 miles. Make sure you get your filter changed when servicing your car.

Tired of your car not starting?

Not to worry, check out one of our used cars at auction. It’s easy to sign up, and bidding can all be done online. You’ll have to pick up the car in person though!

Any other questions, get in contact with us.