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Common Reasons Why Your Car Won’t Start

5 Common Reasons Why Your Car Won’t Start

As a car owner, it’s important for you to recognize the early signs of a potential problem. Failing to do so could lead to you being stranded and in need of a tow. Here are some of the most common reasons why your car won’t start.

Dead Fuel Pump
If your car won’t start, don’t rule out a dead fuel pump. Oftentimes, a failing fuel pump will begin to produce a loud whine or howl. Expect the sound to gradually become louder over time. Your vehicle could also begin to sputter. At this point, replacement is likely your only option. The last thing you want is for the fuel pump to suddenly go kaput while on a busy highway.

While a fuel pump can fail due to old age, poor maintenance tends to be the biggest culprit. Many drivers neglect to replace the fuel pump’s filter, which causes excess dirt and debris to build up. Routinely driving on E can also cause premature failure. In order to prevent this component from overheating, a certain amount of gasoline needs to be in the tank.

Bad Battery
Of the reasons why a car won’t start, a bad battery is probably at the top of the list. Car batteries naturally start to weaken with age. However, freezing and extremely hot weather can also cause them to fail sooner than expected. Although you can jump-start a weak battery during emergencies, you’ll need to get it replaced asap.

To be on the safe side, have your battery tested and inspected at least twice a year. A mechanic can tell when there’s not much juice left. Also, pay attention to your battery’s expiration date. A few reason’s your car won’t start.

Faulty Starter
A vehicle’s starter tends to have a long life expectancy. Some can even last for 200,000 miles or more. Nevertheless, it will eventually need to be replaced at some point. Once this electrical motor goes bad, your car won’t start.

Starters typically give warning signs before they completely fail. Many drivers notice that their vehicle takes noticeably longer to crank. You may also hear a clicking noise when turning the ignition.

Broken Timing Belt
Some vehicles are engineered with a timing belt. This rubber belt is responsible for opening and closing the engine’s valves at the appropriate time. As you begin to rack up the miles, the belt gradually begins to weaken. If the timing belt snaps, your car won’t start. On some models, there’s also a chance for major engine damage to occur.

Car owners can prevent trouble by simply having the timing belt replaced at the automaker’s recommended interval. While some timing belts need to be changed every 60,000 miles, others are rated to last for more than 100,000 miles.

Engine Failure
A well-serviced engine can last for an extremely long time. Unfortunately, some car owners in Asheville tend to put maintenance on the back burner. Failing to get regular oil changes can definitely shorten an engine’s life. Overheating is another big issue, which often stems from a low level of coolant.

If a mechanic finds that your engine has failed, there are two options to take. You can either have the engine rebuilt or have a new one installed.

At Cox Auto Service in Asheville, NC we cover the gamut on mechanical service for automobiles. Our highly qualified mechanics work on anything from minor repairs such as belts, oil changes, maintenance work to major repairs like engine and transmission work. We take pride in the auto repairs and services we provide. Rely on us to treat our customers’ vehicles as if they were our own. If you are experiencing any of the warning signs above contact us, and we will be glad to be of service.

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