How to Troubleshoot a GM That Won't Start

Check the fuel levels and jump start your GM to get it started.

General Motors makes a variety of automobiles, but they all have two things in common--all of the vehicles must have a good battery and enough fuel to start the motor. If you are having problems starting your GM vehicle, you can troubleshoot the issues with the battery and the level of fuel in the GM's tank. Troubleshooting these issues will save you time and money before you employ a mechanic to look at your GM.

Things You'll Need

• Jumper cables

Instructions

1. Check the fuel level in your GM. Make sure you have enough gas to start the car. Add gas if needed and then start your GM.

2. Pop the hood and connect the positive lead from your jump cable to your battery. Connect the negative lead to your negative terminal.

3. Get a friend to attach the positive and negative leads from the jumper cable to their car's battery.

4. Start your friend's car. Start your GM. Leave the GM running for a little while to charge the battery.

5. Turn the GM off and then restart the car. If the car does not restart, change your battery.

References

• Family Car Parts: My Car Won't Start
• Chevrolet: 2011 Chevy Avalanche Owner's Manual