How to get your car started when there's a fault
Trapped in your driveway because your car's let you down? Or perhaps you're stranded miles from civilisation with the same problem? Here's how to tackle the most common problems and get back on the road
Key points
A flat or faulty car battery can often prevent a car from starting, indicated by dim headlights or slow engine cranking, and can be addressed by checking connections, cleaning corrosion, and jump-starting
Flooded engines, steering wheel locks, faulty starter motors, low fuel, cold weather, jammed steering locks, and non-sparking ignition coils are other common causes
Breakdown insurance offers crucial support for these problems, providing roadside assistance, towing, and repair services, which is essential for immediate help and ensuring that the vehicle can be safely and quickly repaired or moved
Flat or faulty car battery
When your car won't start, a flat or faulty battery is often to blame. Here's how to effectively address this issue:
Spot the signs: Giveaways that a battery is losing its charge is if your car's headlights are dimmer than usual or if the engine cranks slowly.
Inspect battery connections: Check for corrosion (a white or greenish powdery substance) on the battery terminals. Ensure the connections are tight and secure. Loose connections can prevent the car from starting
Jump-start your car: Safely jump-start your vehicle by following these steps:
Turn off both cars before connecting the jumper cables
Attach the positive (red) cable to the positive terminal of the flat battery. Connect the other end to the donor battery
Connect the negative (black) cable to the donor battery's negative terminal. Attach the other end to a metal part of your car's engine block
Start the donor car and let it run for a few minutes, then try starting your car
Once your car starts, disconnect the cables in reverse order
By following these steps, you can resolve issues related to a flat or faulty car battery and get back on the road swiftly.
Flooded car engine
A flooded engine occurs when excess petrol soaks the spark plugs, preventing ignition. This often results from multiple starting attempts without the engine firing up.
To clear a flooded engine, fully press the accelerator and turn the ignition. Hold this position for a few seconds.
This action activates 'clear flood mode,' reducing fuel flow and increasing air intake, which helps dry out the plugs.
If the engine doesn't start after a few tries, wait a few minutes before trying again.
To prevent engine flooding, avoid repeatedly turning the ignition on and off without the engine running.
Also, ensure you undertake regular maintenance checks, especially during colder months when engines are more prone to flooding.
Steering wheel lock
When your steering wheel locks, it can prevent the car from starting. The safety feature deters thieves by securing the wheel until the correct key starts the ignition.
It's crucial for drivers to understand why steering wheels lock and the impact on the ignition.
If faced with a locked steering wheel, gently turn the key in the ignition while wiggling the steering wheel back and forth.
This may realign the lock, allowing the ignition to turn. While you're turning the key, avoid using excessive force on the key to prevent it from breaking.
If these efforts fail, seek professional help. A qualified mechanic or a breakdown insurance service can assist, ensuring safe and effective handling of your car. and avoiding further damage to your vehicle's steering or ignition systems.
Key fob fault
When your car won't start, a key fob fault might be to blame. Often, problems manifest as the car not responding to the fob, or the fob requiring multiple presses.
These issues typically indicate a weakening battery. To replace the battery, simply open the fob (you might need to unscrew it), replace the old battery with a new one, and ensure it is properly seated.
If the issue continues after the battery change, reprogramming or replacing the fob may be necessary.
This generally involves a visit to a professional who can ensure your fob communicates correctly with your car, thus restoring seamless start-up.
Low on fuel
Running low on fuel can cause your car to not start and it's vital to monitor your fuel gauge to avoid this issue.
When a car is out of fuel, it may sputter or the engine might cut out during acceleration. If you're stranded without fuel, remain calm.
Contact a breakdown service or head to the nearest petrol station. And to ensure you stay safe and avoid running out of fuel in future, have a phone and, if possible, carry emergency fuel in a proper container.
Starter motor is faulty
This essential component ignites the engine. Its failure can leave you stranded. Here's how to recognise the signs of a failing starter motor, how to test it, and replacement or repair steps.
Firstly, recognize the signs of a failing starter motor. You might hear a clicking noise when turning the key. Alternatively, the engine may turn over very slowly. These are classic tell-tale signs. Sometimes, there might be no sound at all, as if the car is ignoring your attempts to start it.
Next, test the starter motor if you suspect a fault. This involves measuring the voltage at the motor's terminals while starting the car.
A multimeter is useful for this task. If the readings show sufficient voltage but the motor doesn't operate, it's likely to be defective.
If the starter motor is the problem, consider replacing or repairing it. Many people prefer to go for a replacement due to the complexity of repairs.
However, if you are skilled in car mechanics, you might opt for repair. This often involves replacing worn components like the solenoid or brushes.
Cold weather
Cold weather poses significant challenges for car starting systems. Principally because as temperatures fall, your car's battery experiences slower chemical reactions.
This reduction in power output makes it difficult for the engine to start. Additionally, engine oil thickens in cold conditions, increasing battery strain.
To ensure your car starts in cold weather, follow these tips:
Try to maintain a fully charged battery as cold reduces efficiency.
Opt for thinner oil during winter to prevent thickening.
Lastly, park in a garage to protect your car from severe cold.
To avoid problems with cold-weather starts and related wear and tear, you may want to invest in an engine block. These warm the engine before starting, reducing vehicle wear during cold starts.
Other useful tools include battery warmers and batteries with higher Cold Cranking Amps (CCA). These are designed to perform better in cold conditions.
Jammed steering lock
Handling a jammed steering lock is crucial as it can prevent your car from starting. First, determine if the steering lock is the issue.
Typically, if the steering wheel is immobile and the key won't turn, it's likely jammed. To fix a jammed steering lock, gently wiggle the steering wheel while turning the key. This action can realign the lock pins, allowing the car to start.
However, if this doesn't solve the problem, it's advisable to seek professional help.
Mechanics or roadside assistance can offer the expertise needed to fix the issue safely and effectively, without harming the steering mechanism.
Ignition coil isn't sparking
A working ignition coil is essential, as it generates the spark needed for the engine to ignite the fuel-air mix.
Without it, your car fails to start. Here's an overview of the symptoms of a faulty ignition coil, testing methods, and replacement steps.
Symptoms of a faulty ignition coil
A malfunctioning ignition coil can cause engine misfiring, reduced power, and increased fuel consumption. You may also struggle to start the car. Additionally, a light that tells you to check your engine might appear on your dashboard.
Testing the ignition coil
To test the coil, use a multimeter. First, disconnect the coil from your vehicle's system. Then, measure the resistance levels and compare these to the values in your car's manual. A significant deviation indicates a defective coil.
Replacing the ignition coil
If the coil is faulty, you'll need a replacement. The average cost for a new one is about £150.
Once you've got the right part for your vehicle's make and model, you can start by disconnecting the battery.
Then it's just a case of removing the faulty coil, install the new one, and reconnect the battery. Always wear safety gloves and follow the manufacturer's instructions to prevent mishaps.
What does breakdown insurance cover?
Breakdown insurance provides a safety net for motorists, addressing various issues that might prevent your car from starting. Here's a detailed look at what this insurance typically includes:
Overview of breakdown insurance coverage: Breakdown cover generally includes roadside assistance. It helps with flat batteries, mechanical failures, and other common car troubles that can leave you stranded. Services might also extend to towing, a replacement vehicle, and overnight accommodation if repairs are delayed
How breakdown insurance can help when your car won't start: If your car fails to ignite, breakdown cover can be crucial. A qualified mechanic will usually come to your location to fix the problem. If they cannot start your car immediately, they can tow it to the nearest garage for repairs, ensuring you're not left stranded
Choosing the right breakdown insurance plan: Selecting a suitable plan is essential. Consider your car's age, your driving frequency, and your typical routes. Some plans offer more comprehensive coverage, which might be beneficial if you often travel far from home or drive in remote areas.
