Q: Car does not start after overheating

asked by on March 28, 2016

My car cranks, but it does not turn over. This issue started after my car overheated.

Car is not starting Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hello. It sounds like you have a blown head gasket which has now caused antifreeze to leak into the engine block. If this happens the engine cannot compress water. This will prevent the car from turning over and starting properly. It will be necessary to have your head gasket and cooling system inspected. This should be done by a certified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, who can help you determine why your car does not start.

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

How do I use the windshield washers?
The windshield washer button is located on the multifunction lever, which sticks out of the left side of the steering column. At the tip of the multifunction lever is a button. Press this button, and washer fluid will be sprayed...
Possible fuel injector problem that I need fixed.
Clogged fuel injectors are a possible cause of this condition along with a clogged fuel filter and weak or inoperative fuel pump. My first suggestion would be to have a professional do an inspection (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/car-starts-and-then-dies-inspection). If fuel pressure is low...
What does the driver alert Warning Light mean?
The driver alert Warning Light is located on the instrument panel. This light illuminates when the time set for a driver break is met.
Door handle broken
Hello. This is most likely a mechanical issue with one of the components of your door latch assembly. An inspection would need to be completed to determine why your door won't close all the way (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/door-will-not-shut-inspection). I would suggest you...
Rattling sound coming from beneath steering wheel
The most common cause of this would be a clicking relay or something else that is loose. This is a more uncommon issue that will require diagnosis to confirm. A qualified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, will be able...
Check engine light on & car delays
If all of these trouble codes are related to the throttle body (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-throttle-body), I would recommend having your vehicle's throttle body inspected by a qualified mechanic who is proficient at engine diagnostics. This inspection would check the throttle body for...
my trans malfunction warning light came on and 1st and second gear is slow. what can i do
When a module illuminates a warning light, generally there is a fault code that accompanies it. there can be many reasons for the concern like a low fluid level (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/transmission-fluid-service) or a failing internal transmission component. Fluid leaks are common...
Squeak/screech noise, burning smell
This may very well be related to the catalytic converter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/catalytic-converter-replacement) in your car. As you know, the catalytic converter is responsible for converting toxic combustion gases into less harmful gases to be dispelled into the atmosphere via your car's...
Why do I feel vibration when accelerating from a stop?
Hi there: Steering wheel vibration can occur due to multiple mechanical component failures ranging from wheel bearings, shocks and struts wearing out or tie rod's and CV joints that need to be replaced. Other internal transmission issues or poorly performing...

Related articles

How Often Should the Ignition System Be Inspected?
Your Your ignition system is a critical part of both your car and daily driving experience. If it isn't working correctly, you could experience anything from poor engine operation to engine stall or failure to start. It’s critical that you...
2012 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander: Which One Should I Buy?
Large SUVs are a huge and broad market, with a range of different offerings from economy to luxurious. The majority of the SUVs and crossover SUVs offer decent gas mileage, plenty of room for friends and family to ride along...
5 Essential Things to Know About Roadside Emergency Kits
Whether Whether it’s summer or winter, spring or fall – you should always have certain items available in your vehicle’s roadside emergency kit. Dead batteries, flat tires, and overheated engines can occur at any time. While most people have a...