Engine Cranks but Car Won’t Start: Troubleshooting Guide

Introduction

When you turn the key and your engine cranks but doesn’t start, it can be a frustrating and confusing experience. There are a number of potential causes for this issue, ranging from simple to complex. In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step troubleshooting guide to help you diagnose and fix the problem.

Step 1: Check the Fuel System

Fuel Pump

The fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel from the fuel tank to the engine. A faulty fuel pump can prevent the engine from getting the fuel it needs to start. To check the fuel pump, turn the key to the “on” position and listen for a buzzing sound. If you don’t hear a buzzing sound, the fuel pump may be faulty.

Fuel Filter

The fuel filter removes impurities from the fuel. A clogged fuel filter can restrict the flow of fuel to the engine. To check the fuel filter, locate it (usually under the hood near the engine) and inspect it for any signs of dirt or debris. If the fuel filter is clogged, it will need to be replaced.

Fuel Injectors

Fuel injectors spray fuel into the engine’s cylinders. A faulty fuel injector can prevent the engine from getting the fuel it needs to start. To check the fuel injectors, use a multimeter to test their resistance. The resistance should be within the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 2: Check the Ignition System

Spark Plugs

Spark plugs provide the spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture in the engine’s cylinders. A faulty spark plug can prevent the engine from starting. To check the spark plugs, remove them from the engine and inspect them for any signs of wear or damage. If the spark plugs are worn or damaged, they will need to be replaced.

Ignition Coil

The ignition coil provides the electrical current that flows through the spark plugs. A faulty ignition coil can prevent the spark plugs from getting the power they need to create a spark. To check the ignition coil, use a multimeter to test its resistance. The resistance should be within the manufacturer’s specifications.

Distributor Cap

The distributor cap distributes the electrical current from the ignition coil to the spark plugs. A faulty distributor cap can prevent the spark plugs from getting the power they need to create a spark. To check the distributor cap, remove it from the engine and inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. If the distributor cap is worn or damaged, it will need to be replaced.

Step 3: Check the Air Intake System

Air Filter

The air filter removes impurities from the air that is drawn into the engine. A clogged air filter can restrict the flow of air to the engine, which can prevent it from starting. To check the air filter, locate it (usually under the hood near the engine) and inspect it for any signs of dirt or debris. If the air filter is clogged, it will need to be replaced.

Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor

The MAF sensor measures the amount of air that is drawn into the engine. A faulty MAF sensor can provide incorrect information to the engine’s computer, which can prevent the engine from starting. To check the MAF sensor, use a multimeter to test its voltage. The voltage should be within the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 4: Check the Electrical System

Battery

The battery provides the electrical power that is needed to start the engine. A dead battery can prevent the engine from starting. To check the battery, use a voltmeter to measure its voltage. The voltage should be at least 12.6 volts. If the battery is dead, it will need to be replaced.

Starter

The starter motor cranks the engine when you turn the key. A faulty starter can prevent the engine from starting. To check the starter, try to start the engine while someone else listens for a clicking sound. If you hear a clicking sound, the starter may be faulty. To confirm this, try to jump-start the car.