What Could Keep My Car from Starting?
If you are having problems getting your vehicle started, the most likely cause is a problem with your battery.
- Battery is down but is otherwise healthy: This is the best-case scenario; it implies that your battery is just temporarily dead. The likely causes are lights left on, door ajar, or some other battery draining feature has caused the problem. If this is the root of your issue, a jump start will send you on your way without additional care needed.
- Old Battery: Another simple fix if this is the problem, a jumpstart may get your vehicle started, but it won’t keep you going. The next day, you’ll likely face another dead battery or maybe even the next time you try to start your car. Have the battery tested with a voltmeter; if the readings are bad, it just means you’ll need a new battery and you’ll be on your way.
- Problem with your starting system: In this case, it’s not the battery. It’s something related to your starter system. In other words, there is some mechanical problem preventing your car from starting, draining your battery’s power, or keeping your battery from charging when you drive.
If a jump start doesn’t solve your problem, get your battery tested professionally. If it turns out the battery is healthy, a diagnostic test at Victory Chevrolet GMC will help identify the problem so it can be rectified.
If it’s Not the Battery, What Next?
If your battery is healthy and fully charged and your vehicle still won’t start, the problem could lie with the alternator, the starter, spark plugs, ignition switch, fuses, connections, or relays. The problem could also be related to dirt or corrosion on the terminals or cables. Too much gunk can affect your car, so it may be worthwhile to check the connections, clean them, and try starting the engine again. If this doesn’t solve the problem, have your battery tested to check its health. If your batter’s health is good, then our service team can perform a diagnostic test to see the cause of your starting issue.
