What to do when your car won't start

You turn the key or press the start button, and nothing happens. The engine stays silent, or maybe you hear a clicking sound. Either way, your car isn't moving, and you need answers – fast.

This guide offers simple, step-by-step troubleshooting to help you figure out what's wrong, stay safe, and know when it's time to call for professional help. Whether you're stuck in your driveway or pulled over on a busy roadside, these practical tips will help you assess the situation with confidence.

Stay Calm and Check Your Surroundings

Before you start troubleshooting, take a moment to assess your environment. When your car won't start, safety takes priority over speed.

Immediate Safety Checklist

• Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.
• Stay in the vehicle if you're on a busy road or highway shoulder.
• Keep your phone charged and within reach.
• Avoid exiting the car unless absolutely necessary, or it's safer than staying inside.
• Share your location with a trusted contact if you're in a remote area.

If you're in a parking lot or driveway, you'll have more flexibility to move around and inspect the vehicle. But on busy roads, limit your movement outside the car and focus on checks you can perform from inside.

Basic Checks You Can Do Immediately

Sometimes, the fix is simpler than you think. Start here before assuming the worst.

Quick Troubleshooting Before You Call for Help

Before reaching out for roadside assistance, run through this simple checklist. These quick steps can help rule out small issues that are easy to overlook.

Interior Checks

• Make sure the gear selector is in Park or Neutral.
• Check if the dashboard lights, headlights, or dome lights turn on.
• Listen closely for sounds when turning the key – do you hear clicking, cranking, or nothing at all?
• Check for any warning lights on the dashboard.
• Confirm the fuel gauge isn't on "E" (empty).

Steering Wheel Check

Try gently moving the steering wheel while turning the key. Most cars have a steering lock that can prevent the car from starting if engaged.

Battery Indicator Test

Turn on the dome light and watch it as you try to start the car. If the light dims significantly or goes out, your battery is likely weak or dead.

5 Common Reasons Why Your Car Won't Start

Here are some of the most common causes of car problems, what to look for, and what to do next:

1) Dead Battery

• Symptoms: No lights, weak cranking, or clicking sound
• What To Try: Try jump-starting the vehicle

Try The Cycling Key Technique

If the battery is weak, try turning the key to the "Start" position 10 times in a row. Then, wait five minutes and try starting the car normally.

Note: This technique may not work in all vehicles, especially push-start systems or newer models with advanced ignition controls.

2) Faulty Starter Motor

• Symptoms: Single click, no engine turnover
• What To Try: Call a mechanic for a professional inspection

3) Empty Gas Tank

• Symptoms: Engine cranks but won't start, fuel gauge on "E"
• What To Try: Add fuel, then try again

4) Ignition System Issues

• Symptoms: Complete silence, dashboard lights may flash
• What To Try: May need professional diagnostic testing

5) Security System Lockout

• Symptoms: Key fob not recognized, immobilizer light stays active
• What To Try: Try a spare key or reset the fob

Additional Symptoms To Watch For

• Grinding sounds may indicate potential starter damage – stop trying to start the engine immediately.
• Burning smells suggest overheating components – seek professional attention immediately.
• Multiple dashboard warning lights could signal complex electrical issues.

How To Jump-Start a Car

Jump-starting can get you back on the road quickly – if it's done safely. Here's what you'll need and how to do it properly.

What You'll Need:

• Jumper cables or portable jump starter.
• A second vehicle with a good battery (if using cables).
• Safety gloves (recommended).

A Step-by-Step Guide To Jump-Starting a Car (With Safety Precautions)

Jump-starting is safe and simple if you follow the correct steps in the right order.

How To Connect Jumper Cables

1. Position vehicles so batteries are accessible – but make sure the cars don't touch.

2. Turn off both engines and engage the parking brakes.

3. Connect cables in this exact order:

• Red clamp to positive (+) terminal on the dead battery.
• Other red clamp to positive (+) terminal on the good battery.
• Black clamp to negative (-) terminal on the good battery.
• Final black clamp to an unpainted metal surface in the dead car's engine bay (not the battery).

Starting the Vehicle

1. Start the working vehicle and let it run for 2-3 minutes.

2. Try starting the disabled car.

3. If it starts, let both cars run for 10-15 minutes.

4. Remove cables in reverse order of connection.

Safety Notes:

Never let the cable ends touch each other – or contact both battery terminals simultaneously.

If the engine doesn't start after three attempts, stop and call for professional assistance.

When To Call for Help

If basic troubleshooting doesn't work – or if you notice specific warning signs – it's time to call for professional assistance.

Call Immediately If There Are:

• Strong fuel or burning odors.
• Visible fluid leaks under the vehicle.
• Grinding or unusual mechanical sounds.
• Multiple failed jump-start attempts.
• Electrical issues affecting lights, electronics, or dashboard systems.

Roadside Assistance Options

Roadside assistance can help you start your car. Many auto insurance policies include roadside assistance add-ons, or you can contact a provider like Good Sam for a membership that offers services like:

• Jump-starts
• Towing
• Fuel delivery
• Lockout assistance

What To Say When Calling for Help

• Provide your exact location using GPS coordinates or a nearby landmark if possible.
• Describe the problem clearly.
• Give the year, make, and model so responders bring the right equipment and can arrange towing if needed.
• Mention any safety concerns about your location.
• Ask for an estimated arrival time and any specific instructions to follow while waiting.

Safety Tips If Your Car Won't Start and You're Stranded

If your car won't start or you're stuck waiting for help, staying safe is your top priority. These tips can help you stay calm, visible, and protected while you wait.

• Vehicle Positioning: Stay inside the car unless it's unsafe to do so. If you must exit, move away from traffic and remain visible to other drivers.
• Visibility and Communication: Use hazard lights and deploy emergency triangles if available. Keep your phone charged for emergency calls and location sharing. Text a friend or family member your location and let them know you're waiting for help.
• Weather Considerations: In cold weather, if your engine is running, you can let it run periodically for heat — but only if you’re sure the exhaust pipe is clear and the cabin is ventilated to prevent carbon monoxide. If your engine won’t start, focus on using blankets and extra clothing to stay warm instead. In hot weather, crack the windows for airflow but keep doors locked for security.
• Stranger Safety: Politely decline help from unknown individuals, especially in isolated areas. Instead, call verified roadside assistance or law enforcement if you feel unsafe.
• Emergency Supplies: Keep a basic emergency kit in your car that has jumper cables, a flashlight, blankets, water, and basic tools for minor repairs.

Prevent It From Happening Again

Once your car is running again, take a few simple steps to reduce the chances of being stranded in the future.

• Maintain the Battery: Test your battery twice a year, especially before hot summers or freezing winters. Most auto parts stores offer free battery testing. Replace batteries showing signs of corrosion or those over three years old.
• Conduct Regular Inspections: Watch for early warning signs like slow engine cranking, dim headlights, or dashboard warning lights. Address these promptly rather than waiting for complete failure.
• Carry Essential Equipment: Keep jumper cables or a portable battery pack in your vehicle. These tools can resolve the most common starting issues without requiring another vehicle.
• Stick to a Maintenance Schedule: Follow your vehicle's manufacturer-recommended maintenance intervals for the fuel system, ignition components, and electrical system checks. Regular maintenance can help prevent many roadside emergencies.

Pro Tip: A reliable roadside assistance plan gives you peace of mind and quick support. Explore Good Sam's auto roadside assistance plans to deal with the unexpected, no matter where the road takes you.

Stay Prepared, Stay Safe

Most no-start situations have straightforward solutions when you approach them systematically. Stay calm, start with the basics, and don't hesitate to call for professional help when DIY methods reach their limits.

Having reliable roadside assistance means you're never truly stranded. Whether you're dealing with a dead battery, an empty gas tank, or the need for a tow, trusted help can make all the difference. For added peace of mind, choose a plan that covers your family and travels with you nationwide.

Good Sam roadside assistance offers 24/7 support, coast-to-coast coverage, and services like jump-starts, fuel delivery, towing, and more. Compare plans to find the coverage that fits your needs and drive with confidence, knowing help is always within reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does my car make a clicking sound but won't start?

A: Clicking typically indicates a weak or dead battery. The starter is trying to engage but doesn't have sufficient power. Try jump-starting the car first.

2. How do I know if it's the battery or the starter?

A: If the dashboard lights work but the engine doesn't crank, the starter may be the issue. If nothing electrical works, it's likely the battery.

3. Can a car battery die suddenly?

A: Yes, especially in extreme temperatures or if the battery is over three years old. For example, cold weather can reduce battery capacity by 30-60%.

4. Will jump-starting work if the battery is completely dead?

A: In many cases, yes. But, severely damaged or old batteries may require replacement even after successful jump-starting.

5. What if my car won't start even after a jump?

A: This usually points to problems beyond the battery, potentially the alternator, ignition system, or anti-theft system. You'll need a professional diagnosis to find the root cause.