My Car Won’t Start, What’s Wrong?
If you are having problems starting your vehicle, the most common issue is usually related to the battery, but it can be the ignition and starting system as well.
- If the problem is that the battery has just drained but is otherwise healthy the culprit is likely the battery has discharged from leaving the lights on or some other battery-draining feature. If this is the problem, a jump start will usually get you rolling again.
- If your battery is so old that it no longer holds a charge, you’ll need a new battery. If you attempt a jump start and it doesn’t work, or if it starts but the next day you have to jump it again, have your battery tested.
- If the problem is related to your starting system and not to your battery, then the issue is in some way a mechanical problem that is preventing ignition, draining your battery, or keeping it from charging when you drive.
If a jump start doesn’t work, have your vehicle towed to Quality Cadillac and get your battery tested. If your battery is in good shape, then you’ll need a diagnostic to find out why your vehicle won’t start. Odds are it’s related to your starter or alternator which we can also help you with at Quality Cadillac.
If it’s not the Battery, What Could it Be?
If you have a fully charged, healthy battery and you can’t get your vehicle started, then it is a problem with the ignition system. That means it could be the starter, the alternator, your ignition switch, your fuses, spark plugs, or relays that are causing the problem. It may also be a problem with corroded terminals and connectors. If that is the case, cleaning them should get your vehicle up and running again. The only way to be sure if your battery is healthy is with a test. A technician will use a voltmeter to determine if your battery is alive and healthy, and if not, they will recommend some the next steps to remedy the situation.
