Car symptom
Car will not start
The engine turns or clicks but will not fire. The cause is usually battery, starter, fuel or ignition — tested in a precise order.
Most likely causes
- Battery discharged or faulty
- Starter or solenoid fault
- Fuel pump / fuel pressure loss
- No spark (crank sensor, coils, plugs)
- Immobilizer
Checks to run
- Check dashboard lights come on
- Listen for the starter and fuel pump
- Measure battery voltage
- Check for spark and fuel pressure
Tools you may need
Multimeter
Fuel pressure gauge
Spark tester
Jump leads
Confirm before replacing. These are hypotheses to check — never buy parts on a guess. If the fault involves brakes, airbags or fuel under pressure, use a professional.
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FAQ
It depends on the cause. Some causes are cheap and quick; others (like a head gasket or seized caliper) need attention soon. Work through the checks in order and confirm before replacing parts.
Start with the free checks listed here. If they involve high voltage, fuel under pressure, airbags or brakes, let a professional handle it.
The interactive diagnostic asks targeted questions to narrow it down, and every cause must be confirmed with a measurement — never guess.