There are a lot of things that can happen when you’re on the road. Flat tire, engine issues, and oil leaks. Another car problem you might encounter is when your vehicle won’t start. If this happens, you might get stranded on the road with no one to help you out. Even with a broken-down car, there’s no need to give up easily. We have rounded up some things you can try during an unexpected car issue:
Check the Battery
If you’re having starting problems, it might be caused by a dead or discharged battery. A failing battery is indicated by a clicking sound when your key turns in the ignition. Your battery may also die if you have loose wires, or the battery has been around for five years.
To determine battery problems, try jumpstarting your car with a battery pack. If the jumpstart does not work, you need to replace the battery or alternator. Consider charging the battery and connecting the terminals. A battery charger will help restore it to full capacity.
Release the Shifter Stuck in Park
When you start up your car, there is a safety feature called brake-shift interlock. This prevents you from shifting from “park” to “drive” without first hitting the brake. This feature ensures that you will not accidentally run it into reverse or drive. You need to apply the brakes so that the vehicle will move out of the “park” position. Place your foot on the brake, then move the shift lever to the neutral position. After this, try starting the engine. Repeat until the engine starts successfully.
If this doesn’t work and the brake lights are working, then you have a faulty shift interlock solenoid. Once the solenoid has been replaced, you will now be able to lock and unlock the shifter.
Crank the Starter
Start up your vehicle and try turning on the headlights. Do you hear a clicking sound when you start the engine? You might also hear a whirring or grinding noise. This means you have a bad starter motor. When this occurs, try the technique called key cycling. Start by twisting the ignition key and cranking it repeatedly for about 10 times. Wait for three to five minutes before you start the engine.
If this does not work, call a towing company and bring your car to the nearest mechanic. Problems with the starter are impossible to avoid. Have your vehicle checked by a professional mechanic to address the issue.
Check if Your Engine is Flooded
A car engine flooding is one of the reasons for breakdowns, especially during the winter. This happens when there’s too much fuel and not enough air in your engine. On colder days, it takes longer for your engine to reach its most fuel-efficient temperature.
You’ve flooded the engine when you start the car, move it a few meters, and shut it off again. After switching off, the unburned, excess fuel remains in the engine. Soon enough, the spark plugs get wet, making it difficult to ignite the petrol fuel.
If you think it might be flooded, press the accelerator pedal to the floor and restart the engine for a few seconds. Once it starts, release the gas pedal until it warms up. You may also open the hood of the car and leave it sitting for the fuel to evaporate. When these two methods don’t work, have your vehicle towed immediately.
Fill Your Fuel Tank
Most vehicles need gas to run. If you’re experiencing a car breakdown, check the gas gauge first. You might have accidentally let your gas level get too low. A low or empty gas tank might be one of the reasons why your car won’t start. When you run out of fuel, the engine will draw in air that could build up in the fuel tank and combustion chamber. You may call a professional towing company that can deliver gas to get you back on the road.
Request Roadside Assistance From Us
In case you experience a car breakdown, feel free to reach out to Allentown Towing Co. We will properly diagnose the issue and tow your vehicle to the nearest repair shop. Have peace of mind, knowing you’re in good hands with our team. Call us today for all your towing and roadside assistance needs!