Q: Car cannot be started, engine unresponsive

asked by on July 17, 2016

I cannot start my car. I had the battery checked and it is not causing the problem. The radio quit working the day before this happened. The headlights, alarm and dashboard lights work fine. The engine however is totally unresponsive. There isn't even a click when I attempt to start it. What could be causing this?

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

EGR Valve and Airbag lights are on
Hello. It sounds like you have two different issues with your car. Most of the time, if the EGR valve is failing and setting codes it needs to be replaced. It is common for the EGR valve to fail or...
Need to have an extra key made for my car
If you mean that you want a regular style key in addition to your key fob key, the key itself may have to be purchased from the dealership. However, any hardware store, Wal-Mart, and some auto parts stores will be...
New wiper motor not working.
The most likely cause of this is seizing wiper linkage/transmission. This is the part that the wiper motor attaches to, and actually relays the wiper motor motion into movement of the wipers. This problem is very common for VW's. You...
Transmission slipping
Hello...if it is a shift solenoid (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/downshift-solenoid-replacement), that electronically controlled valve is in the transmission "valve body". Often, the part can be replaced without removing the transmission. However, the valve body might have to be removed. This is a fairly...
My car is leaking black fluid from underneath
Hello. Most likely, due to the make and model of your vehicle, the fluid you are leaking is engine oil. A majority of other fluids are not black unless something is seriously wrong with the vehicle. Even so, at that...
Engine will not turn over with FOB, electrical is working, but no dinging and starter doesn't click.
Hi there. Possibly when the switch was installed in line with the fan, the circuit now has too much resistance and the computer has cut out the ignition circuit to keep the engine from starting to prevent it from overheating...
Issue is between 3rd and 4th gear during driving.
Hi there. Ford Fusion's are notorious for having transmission issues. In most cases, the problem you are describing has been determined to be caused by an internal hydraulic failure or obstruction. In some cases, it's due to debris inside the...
My truck will not open anymore at all and then I put the key it won't twist ether?
It could be that you have a lock actuator that is jammed. The actuators can operate the locks, but are also moved by the key in the lock. when they become jammed everything just stops working. There isn't much that...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're a Skier
When When summer ends, skiers start thinking about hitting the hills, and that means having to contend with winter driving conditions. Not just any vehicle is going to get the job done. We have evaluated several used ski-worthy vehicles, and...
5 Comfortable Sports Cars Your Parents Won't Complain About Riding In
The most comfortable sports cars combine high performance with a smooth ride. Options include the Alpina B6, Audi S8 Plus, and Mercedes-AMG S65.
What Does the Distance Warning Light Mean?
The distance warning light turns on when your car is in danger of hitting another car or obstructing object.