☰
GET A QUOTE

Q: Car won't start & makes hollow-type sound

asked by on June 13, 2016

I stopped to get gas on my way to work and when I got back in, my car would not start. It did turn over, but it made a kind of hollow sound like an over-pulled plug. It was a full tank, but it just didn't seem to be getting any. Just yesterday the car felt like there was a bit of a surge while I was driving - I don't know if that’s related. Can you steer me in the direction of solving the problem? Thanks.

Recommended Services

Car is not starting Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
Or For Any Other Auto Repairs Get a Quote

Many different faults can cause the vehicle not to start. A few of the more common are the battery, alternator, starter, fuel pump, and ignition switch. Given that you felt a surge, it is more likely that it’s the battery, alternator or fuel pump. If you want to have this checked, a qualified technician like one from YourMechanic will be able to diagnose your starting issue and perform any repairs you may need.

Volkswagen
engines
fuel
2009
CC
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

Smell gas
This vehicle may be leaking from the fuel pressure regulator; GM has issued a recall for the regulators not having a proper seal. The leaking you describe may, or may not be related to the recall. If the leak is...
Read more
I hear the fuel pump coming on but sometimes it won't start
Just because you hear the fuel pump run does not mean it is pumping the correct pressure to the injection system. If the pressure is real low or the filter is plugged solid, then the pump may not get enough...
Read more
Oil pump and oil sending housing unit
Hi there, thanks for writing in. The oil pressure gauge monitors the oil pressure in one of the main oil ways near to the pump and filter. There is a hole tapped into the engine block with a sensor (for...
Read more
How long can I drive on a failing ball joint
If you have a ball joint that has failed, I would not recommend driving the vehicle at all. Failed ball joints propose a serious safety issue to the driver and all passengers. This issue should be resolved as soon as...
Read more
Installing a trailer hitch requires cutting out a piece of the underbody trim panel.
Hello, thanks for writing in. Personally, if it was my new car I would check to see if there is another different trailer hitch on the market that does not require cutting any trim panels. If there is no other...
Read more
Oil fouls one spark plug - possible cause and recommendations to repair.
Hi there. If oil is causing the spark plug on cylinder number 4 to foul out every 600 to 700 miles, then the valve guide seals to that cylinder are damaged and need replaced. The valve guide seals prevent excessive...
Read more
Engine swap
The question would need to be more specific. When changing out a motor with a used motor is hard enough to get the same year engine to work correct. You want to change out to use a more modern motor...
Read more
Brake booster replacement for 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Hi there. You will have to remove the master cylinder and all of the engine components that are in the way of the brake booster. Then the bolts on the inside of the cab will need to be removed to...
Read more
Transmission won't shift from first gear
You will need to have the car checked for the reason the check engine light is coming on? The vehicle is going into failsafe mode and not shifting transmission. Once you get the codes from the computer you can then...
Read more

Related articles

What Does It Mean When an Engine "Knocks"?
If your engine is making a knocking noise it means there's a problem. The wrong fuel octane, carbon buildup, and bad spark plugs can cause knocking.
Read more
The Best Used Cars to Buy for First Time Car Owners
Owning Owning your very first car is an exciting time in a person’s life. Likely you want to put a lot of thought and research into the process to ensure you get something that meets your needs, is fun to...
Read more
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor
Common signs include long cranking time, engine performance issues, and the Check Engine Light coming on.
Read more

Browse other content

Estimates
Cars
Cities
Services