Q: Car won't start.

asked by

Chase C

on December 08, 2017

A week ago car was running just fine, but one night it turned slow and didn't start. I tried it again and it fired right up. Thinking nothing of it I kept driving as usual. The next night it experienced no problems until I got home. I shut the car off after driving about 15 miles to get my mail. When I went to start it a few minutes later it wouldn't start, again the slow turning. This time, however, a clicking and whirring noise was coming from my dash and my trip odometer and other trip info auto reset itself. the next morning it started right up. For a day or two it would only have trouble starting when the engine was hot, but it would turn a little slower than usual and if it didn't start the dash noise would happen with the resets. Battery voltage always read fine no matter what. Yesterday it wouldn't start at all, still making the usual dash problems. This time a clicking noise was coming from driver's side mid way up the car. Starter maybe? But what's with the dash stuff?

My car has 163000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Save Big on Auto Repairs

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

Get a quote

Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

Apply Now

What others are asking

How do I fix a locked seat belt?

Sometimes your seat belt gets locked while you are wearing it, or when you are trying to put it on. When this happens, unbuckle the belt (if it is latched), and let it retract all the way into the retractor....

Car dies after about 30 minutes of driving

The ignition module failing after getting hot is the most likely failed part causing the stall. There can also be a problem with the fuel pump or sensors. I recommend seeking a certified mechanic, like one from YourMechanic, to come...

Car cranks, but won't start

If you have teeth on the flywheel missing it is possible that if the engine stops at just the right spot the starter will not be able to engage the flywheel and turn it. In order to replace the flywheel...

Smoke on start up

Sometimes the muffler will hold some moisture when the exhaust cools from the day before. This moisture will evaporate quickly when you first start the engine in the morning and goes out the exhaust as steam. This is most likely...

My car shuts off at 40mph and i have to restart it

Hi there: In many cases when a vehicle simply shuts off while under operation it is caused by a main relay that is failing or a distributor issue. Most professional mechanics will begin to trace this issue by determining if...

Electronic Stability Control repair/replacement - 2008 Saturn Sky

Hi there - I believe you meant Electronic Stability Control module (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/what-does-the-electronic-stability-control-esc-warning-light-mean-by-spencer-cates). ESC works somewhat like anti-skid brakes, applying selective brake pulses automatically in extreme cornering situations to improve driver control of the vehicle. It is somewhat unusual for the...

Have a ford Ka and the gears are getting stuck 2007 Ford Ka

Hello - it sounds like the clutch or the clutch hydraulic system is failing to disengage (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/how-does-a-clutch-engage-and-disengage) the clutch. This causes all the clashing and grinding when shifting into any gear. I would recommend a clutch system inspection (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/clutch-is-not-fully-disengaging-inspection) by...

4wd engages but vehicle bucks like 4wd is slipping.

There is likely an internal issue going on within your transfer case. The most common cause of transfer case slippage is low fluid. I suggest that the transfer case fluid condition and level is checked. If the two wheel drive...

2001 honda crv, broken timing belt, probably valve damage, could repair for <$1000 be likely?

Unfortunately if the valves have been damaged the engine will likely require replacement. With the cost of a new engine and the labor time to put it in I would imagine that a repair such as this would cost over...

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Cadillac CTS

The The 2012 Cadillac CTS comes with high tech features and a large amount of standard equipment when compared to its Japanese and European counterparts. The CTS is available in wagon, coupe, and sedan models to fit the needs of...

A Buyer's Guide to the 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV

When When most people think of the Cadillac Escalade, two words generally come to mind: power and luxury. The 2012 Cadillac Escalade ESV is no different. However, with this model, you can throw in another word: efficient. This hybrid carries...

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re Over Six Feet Tall

While While shorter than average drivers can have a tough time finding the right car, it’s equally hard for taller drivers, perhaps more so. If you’re feeling squished, or have to hunch over the wheel to drive, then you’re not...

Q: Car won't start.

Get an instant quote for your car

Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Related articles

Browse other content