Manufacturers have worked hard to ensure that your vehicle starts when that ignition key is turned. But things still do go wrong, so it helps to know what you can do if you find yourself in such a situation. Sometimes an auto won't start out of a minor problem; do you want to waste a trip to the mechanic when you could've found the solution yourself?

What Happens When You Turn That Key?

So you insert the key into the ignition. Once you turn to it "Start", the ignition grabs some juice from the battery for the electric start motor, which cranks the engine. Usually, after less than a second, the engine powers up and starts running. Congratulations! Now you're ready to drive off!

A simple process, from turning to cranking to running. But there's a lot that can go wrong. Here are some common problems and their equally common solutions:

The Key Will not Turn

Believe it or not, many people make the mistake of trying to use a key that doesn't work with the auto. And sometimes a key may be too worn out for the ignition to properly recognize it. Look for a spare key and try using that.

Another reason why the key won't turn in the ignition is the auto's steering wheel lock, designed to make life a bit harder for thieves. Try moving the wheel in one direction, then the other, while trying to turn the key. Eventually the lock will release and you'll be able to turn the key.

The Engine Does Not Crank

Sometimes you don't hear the engine crank (i.e., make a sound) when you turn the ignition. Other times you may hear a click, then nothing else, or a series of repetitive clicks.  Another possibility is that the engine does crank, but much more slowly than usual.

Again, it could be a simple oversight. Most automatic transmission vehicles will not start unless the gear selector is on park or neutral, so check if that's not true. On older vehicles or manual transmission autos, make sure the gear shift is disengaged. Then again, you may have a bigger problem. Turn on any interior light in your auto, and try to start the engine again. If the light dims, your battery may be dead.

The Engine Cranks But Does Not Completely Start (or Does Not Fire)

So you turn the key, and the engine cranks. Unfortunately, no matter how long you keep it cranking it does not start running (or fire for short). Stop trying to start your auto, because you'll eventually drain your battery. The problem in this case is not the starter or your battery, but your fuel or the engine itself.

First, check if you actually have enough fuel for the engine to start. If it's clear that you have enough in your tank, it's time to call in a pro; the problem is something more significant.

The Engine Cranks and Starts, But the Auto Won't Move

You've successfully started your vehicle, but for some reason it move after you've engaged the gear. On automatic transmission autos, this could be a sign of transmission or drivetrain problems. On manual transmission vehicles, it could be a sign of a worn-out or poorly adjusted clutch. It's time to call in an expert, but only if you're sure you're not moving even if a gear is engaged.


We hope you find this list useful. After all, many of problems drivers experience with their autos are due to simple forgetfulness. But sometimes a car won't start because of a major problem. If, after you've tried the steps above, nothing works, call a mechanic, and consider yourself lucky that your auto has saved itself from additional damage.

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