How to Troubleshoot Car Start Up Problems

Even with the complexity of modern automobiles, the basic formula they require to start has not changed much in years. When an automobile fails to start, the first step should be to inspect the automobile safety features that may prevent it from starting. Then generally speaking, focus troubleshooting on the primary things a gasoline-powered automobile needs, which include air, fuel (gasoline), electricity (from the battery), and vacuum.

Things You'll Need

• Automobile battery post brush
• Assistant

Instructions

1. Verify that the manual transmission stick shift is in the "Neutral" position and the clutch is pushed in or that the automatic transmission is set to the "Park" position while you are pushing down the brake. Then try to start the automobile.

2. Verify that all seat belts are fastened and then try to start the automobile.

3. Locate the main fuse box for the automobile (reference the owner's manual for the location) and then check fuses that may be connected to the starter switch to determine if the circuit inside the fuse is open (not connected). Inspect the small wire inside the fuse that connects both ends of the fuse together. If the wire inside the fuse has a gap or looks burned, then replace the fuse with a fuse of the same amperage. Then try to start the automobile.

4. Open the hood or compartment where the battery is located and inspect the battery posts for corrosion. If there is a green or grayish white powder, use a wrench or pliers to remove the battery connections from the battery posts. Mix distilled water and soda, then pour sparingly on the corrosive powder until the powder dissolves. Clean and dry the battery posts with a towel. Brush the battery posts and battery cable connectors with a battery post brush. Connect and tighten battery cable connectors to the battery posts, then try to start the automobile.

5. Locate the air filter for the engine (reference the owner's manual for the location). Remove the air filter, then turn on a flashlight and point it toward you at arm's length with the air filter in between. If light cannot been seen through the air filter, replace it and try to start the automobile.

6. Locate the spark plug cables (reference the owner's manual for the location). Inspect each spark plug cable connection by lightly pushing, then pulling to verify they are securely connected to the spark plugs. Remove and reseat each spark plug cable that is not securely connected, then try to start the automobile.

7. Locate the vacuum hoses that are connected to the engine using the Vehicle Emissions Control Information (VECI) label in the engine compartment. Inspect each hose for cracks, abrasions and wear, and remove and reattach each hose to confirm that each is tightly sealed to the connector. Replace each damaged hose with a new hose and then try to start the automobile.

8. Locate the fuel line that feeds the engine (reference the owner's manual for the location) and then place a small plastic bucket under the fuel filter; then remove and inspect the fuel filter. If the fuel filter is clogged, replace it.

9. Place the open fuel line halfway into a small plastic bucket while an assistant attempts to start the engine. If fuel does not flow from the fuel line, replace the fuel pump, reconnect the fuel line, and then try to start the automobile.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay clear of the radiator and fan when working under the hood of an automobile. The radiator exterior has many razor-sharp edges and the fan may cause injury when rotating.

• When testing the fuel pump, place a towel around the top of the bucket to prevent splashing.