Car Won’t Start? Causes and What to Do
You turn the key or press the button and nothing happens, or not enough. The noise the car makes (or doesn't make) tells you a lot about what's wrong. Here's how to read the symptoms, what you can safely try, and when it's time to call for help.
Clicking, or nothing at all
A single click, rapid clicking, or dim dashboard lights when you try to start usually point to a flat or failing battery, or a poor connection at the battery terminals. It's the most common cause, especially after a cold night, a long period without driving, or lights left on. A jump start often fixes it. See our guide: jump start or recovery?
No lights and no sound
If nothing lights up at all, the battery may be completely flat or disconnected. On cars with keyless entry, also check the battery in the key fob: many cars let you start with a dead fob by holding it against a marked spot on the steering column or the start button (your handbook shows where).
Engine turns over but won't fire
If the engine cranks normally but doesn't start, the battery is probably fine. Common causes are a fuel problem (an empty tank, a failed fuel pump or the wrong fuel), an ignition fault or a sensor failure. Don't keep cranking for long periods: it drains the battery and won't fix the fault.
A key or lock symbol on the dashboard
A flashing key or padlock symbol usually means the immobiliser doesn't recognise the key. Try the spare key if you have it. If the spare works, the problem is the first key.
Quick checks before you call
- Automatic: is the gear selector fully in P? Try N as well.
- Manual: is the clutch pressed all the way down? Many cars need it.
- Steering lock: turn the wheel gently while turning the key or pressing start.
- Fuel: is the gauge really above empty? Some gauges read wrongly when very low.
Stop if you hear grinding, see smoke or smell fuel. Don't keep trying. Get everyone away from the car and call for help. Call 999 if there's any sign of fire.
When to call for recovery
If a jump start doesn't work, the car cranks but won't fire, or there's a warning light you don't recognise, it needs a garage. Call or WhatsApp us with the symptoms: if roadside help is likely to work we'll say so, and if not we'll recover the car to your garage or home. Local recovery starts from £125.
Car Won’t Start FAQs
Why does my car click but not start?
Clicking almost always means the starter motor isn't getting enough power, usually because of a flat or weak battery or a loose battery terminal. A jump start often gets you going.
My car turns over but won't start. Is it the battery?
Probably not. If the engine cranks at normal speed, the battery is usually fine. The cause is more likely fuel, ignition or a sensor. It needs diagnosing at a garage.
Can you jump start my car instead of towing it?
Often, yes, if the problem is a flat battery. Tell us the symptoms when you call and we'll tell you honestly whether a jump start is likely to work.
Car Still Won’t Start?
Call or WhatsApp us with your location and we’ll arrange recovery to you.
