Usually, most drivers don’t have to think too much about how their car works. Each morning as they head out the door, all they have to do is turn the key (or push the start button), and they’re off for the day. However, if you’ve owned a car for very long, it won’t come as a surprise that every car needs some type of basic maintenance for the systems that keep it operating reliably, regardless of whether it’s new or old.
One important system that to think about is the starting system. If any of the components of this system have failed or malfunctioned, you will experience starting problems.
What are the most common engine starting problems, you wonder? Here are five issues that could cause starting problems:
- Bad Ignition Switch – This problem is typically indicated by trouble turning the key, flickering dash lights when you turn the key, or if the car doesn’t do anything at all when you turn the key.
- Failed Starter – A failed starter will often make a loud single click, or a series of clicks when the key is turned in the ignition. The starter may be trying to move, but cannot actually engage with the flywheel to spin the motor.
- Faulty Alternator – The alternator is responsible for creating a spark in the engine as well as charging the vehicle's battery while the car is running. If the alternator fails, the battery takes overpowering the accessories and will eventually be drained of all its charge.
- Fuel System Problems – Fuel system problems, such as a clogged fuel filter, bad fuel pump, or dirty fuel injectors, can cause rough idling, loss of power, or a car that won’t start at all.
- Dead Car Battery – The battery is responsible for providing the initial electricity necessary to start the car. It will die if accessories or lights are left on without the engine running, if it has become weak and can’t hold a charge, or if the alternator has failed.
If you need to know more about what are the most common engine starting problems, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about a needed engine repair and to schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
Usually, most drivers don’t have to think too much about how their car works. Each morning as they head out the door, all they have to do is turn the key (or push the start button), and they’re off for the day. However, if you’ve owned a car for very long, it won’t come as a surprise that every car needs some type of basic maintenance for the systems that keep it operating reliably, regardless of whether it’s new or old.
One important system that to think about is the starting system. If any of the components of this system have failed or malfunctioned, you will experience starting problems.
What are the most common engine starting problems, you wonder? Here are five issues that could cause starting problems:
- Bad Ignition Switch – This problem is typically indicated by trouble turning the key, flickering dash lights when you turn the key, or if the car doesn’t do anything at all when you turn the key.
- Failed Starter – A failed starter will often make a loud single click, or a series of clicks when the key is turned in the ignition. The starter may be trying to move, but cannot actually engage with the flywheel to spin the motor.
- Faulty Alternator – The alternator is responsible for creating a spark in the engine as well as charging the vehicle's battery while the car is running. If the alternator fails, the battery takes overpowering the accessories and will eventually be drained of all its charge.
- Fuel System Problems – Fuel system problems, such as a clogged fuel filter, bad fuel pump, or dirty fuel injectors, can cause rough idling, loss of power, or a car that won’t start at all.
- Dead Car Battery – The battery is responsible for providing the initial electricity necessary to start the car. It will die if accessories or lights are left on without the engine running, if it has become weak and can’t hold a charge, or if the alternator has failed.
If you need to know more about what are the most common engine starting problems, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about a needed engine repair and to schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
