Car Hard to Start and Check Engine Light On

Possible Causes

Battery problems: A weak or dead battery can make it difficult to start your car, and it can also cause the check engine light to come on.
Alternator problems: The alternator is responsible for charging the battery and providing power to the electrical system. A faulty alternator can lead to a weak battery, which can make it hard to start your car.
Starter problems: The starter is responsible for turning the engine over. A faulty starter can make it difficult or impossible to start your car.
Fuel system problems: A lack of fuel, a clogged fuel filter, or a faulty fuel pump can all make it difficult to start your car.
Ignition system problems: The ignition system is responsible for creating the spark that ignites the fuel in the engine. A faulty ignition system can make it difficult or impossible to start your car.
Computer problems: The computer controls many of the systems in your car, including the engine. A faulty computer can cause a variety of problems, including making it difficult to start your car.

What to Do

If your car is hard to start and the check engine light is on, there are a few things you can do:

Check the battery. Make sure the battery terminals are clean and tight. If the battery is weak or dead, you may need to jump-start your car or replace the battery.
Check the alternator. You can do this by using a multimeter to measure the voltage output of the alternator. If the voltage is below 13.5 volts, the alternator may be faulty and need to be replaced.
Check the starter. You can do this by listening for a clicking sound when you turn the key to the start position. If you don’t hear a clicking sound, the starter may be faulty and need to be replaced.
Check the fuel system. Make sure there is fuel in the tank and that the fuel filter is not clogged. You can also try to clean the fuel injectors.
Check the ignition system. Make sure the spark plugs are clean and properly gapped. You can also try to replace the ignition coil.
Check the computer. You can do this by using a scan tool to read the computer codes. If there are any codes, you can use them to diagnose the problem.

If you are not comfortable performing any of these checks yourself, you can take your car to a mechanic for diagnosis and repair.

Conclusion

If your car is hard to start and the check engine light is on, it is important to diagnose and repair the problem as soon as possible. Driving with a faulty car can be dangerous, and it can also lead to more expensive repairs down the road.