If your vehicle won’t start, more often than not it’s because of your battery not having a charge, but other circumstances can cause similar starting issues. These include:
Corrosion on the battery terminals: Sometimes white, chalky corrosion can build up on each of the terminals located on the top of your battery. When this happens, it can prevent the proper flow of electricity through the battery cable attached to them. Luckily, this can easily be cleaned off with a wire brush or steel wool.
Faulty starter: If your vehicle’s starter has gone bad, it cannot convert the electrical energy from the battery into mechanical energy to start the engine. In this case, you’ll often hear the same kind of clicking noise when you try to start the car as you would with a dead battery.
Bad alternator: If your alternator fails, it won’t recharge your battery when the engine is on. In this situation, after you’ve been driving for a while and then turn your car off, then go to start it again later, your car won’t start. A bad alternator can also, in some cases, cause a parasitic drain on your battery which would also result in the car not starting.
Clogged or worn fuel/ignition system components: Clogged fuel injectors or worn spark plugs can cause vehicle starting problems. In these instances, the car cannot get the necessary fuel or ignition levels to be able to start and run the engine.
If you’re having trouble starting your vehicle you may need a new car battery installation done or it could be another issue. Either way, the ASE-certified mechanics at any one of our 19 Driver’s Edge locations can help diagnose the problem and get you back on the road.
Book your appointment online now for the location nearest you! Make sure to check out our coupons page for the latest deals to help save you money on car battery replacement or other auto repair services.