
Originally Posted by
kabuke0
Engine won't crank
Steps:
1. Generally caused by either a dead battery or a bad starter, although you should check steps 1 through 5 to make sure it's not an operator error.
2. If car is automatic, check that transmission is in park and your foot is on brake.
3. If car is stick shift, check that clutch pedal is fully depressed. Check neutral safety switch behind clutch pedal (small button that prevents engine from starting when transmission is in gear). If clutch pedal doesn't fully engage neutral safety switch, engine will not crank.
4. Check that driver's seat belt is fastened (some cars will not start with seat belt unlatched).
5. Make sure you've properly inserted key. Turn it to On position and give steering wheel quarter turn in either direction.
6. Make sure alarm system is not activated, preventing car from starting.
7. Check for dead battery. Test wipers, radio, headlights and heater fan. If all work normally, battery is probably charged and you may have bad starter. If they don't work, move on to next step.
8. Check connection at battery and at starter .If battery connections are good and all accessories work, consider jumpstarting car .
9. Open hood and check battery connections at terminals. If either connector is loose enough to move, problem may be bad connection. Jiggle or tighten cable end. Corrosion at battery terminal will also prevent car from starting. Clean terminal with wire brush or water and rag and tighten battery cable connectors.
10. Check connection at starter. Follow battery cable from positive battery terminal to starter. Make sure connection isn't loose. Lightly tap outside of starter with hammer. Sometimes this will free stuck components inside so car can start.
11. Consider push-starting car (manual transmission only) if battery or starter is at fault .
12. Call tow truck.