You turn the key and the car will not start. What you hear and see at that moment says a lot about where the problem is.
Nothing happens, or the lights are very dim
It is almost always the battery: it went flat because something was left on, because the car stood unused for many days, or simply because it has reached the end of its life. Check the terminals too: if they are loose or covered in white powder (corrosion), the contact is poor.
You hear one click, or lots of fast clicks
The battery has a little charge, enough for the lights but not for the starter motor. If the battery is definitely fine and you hear one loud click with nothing turning, the starter motor may be at fault.
The starter turns normally but the engine won't fire
The battery is fine. The problem is more likely in the fuel supply or the ignition:
- The car has run out of fuel, or the fuel gauge is reading wrong.
- The fuel pump or fuel filter.
- Spark plugs or ignition coils on petrol cars.
- Glow plugs on diesels, mainly on cold mornings.
- One of the engine sensors.
Before you call, check these
- On automatics, the gear lever must be in P (or N). On manuals, many cars need the clutch pedal pressed.
- If the light with the key or padlock symbol is flashing, the car may not be recognising the key (immobiliser). Try the spare key or replace the battery in the key.
- If the steering is locked, move the wheel slightly left and right while you turn the key.
How to jump-start a car safely
- Both cars switched off and not touching each other.
- Red lead to the + of the flat battery, then to the + of the good battery.
- Black lead to the − of the good battery, then to an unpainted metal point on the engine of the car that will not start, away from the battery.
- Start the good car, wait a few minutes and then try the other one.
- Remove the leads in the reverse order.
Some cars have dedicated jump-start points under the bonnet, shown in the owner's manual. If yours has them, use them.
If it only starts with jump leads
Then the battery probably needs replacing, or the alternator is not charging it properly. Drop by the shop and we will check the battery and the charging system. If needed, we replace the battery on the spot.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the car click but not start?
Usually the battery is weak and does not have enough power to turn the starter motor. Loose or corroded terminals, or the starter motor itself, can also be the cause.
How do I jump-start a car?
Red lead to the + of the flat battery and to the + of the good battery. Black lead to the − of the good battery and to an unpainted metal point on the engine of the car that will not start. Start the good car first, wait a few minutes and then try the other one.
These tips are general. Every car has its own manufacturer specifications, so ask us about yours.