Turn the key and… nothing. A car that won’t start is one of the most common breakdowns there is — and often one of the most frustrating. Here’s what to check, and when to stop fiddling and call for help.
Quick checks to try first
- Lights and dashboard — dead or dim? That points to a flat battery. Bright but still no start? Look elsewhere.
- Are you in the right gear? Manuals often need the clutch fully down; automatics need to be in Park or Neutral.
- Fuel — sounds obvious, but check you’re not simply out.
- Immobiliser — a warning light flashing on the dash can mean the car doesn’t recognise the key. Try your spare.
What’s usually behind it
The usual suspects are a flat or failing battery, a faulty starter motor, a fuel or immobiliser problem, or (on diesels) glow-plug issues in cold weather. Some you can sort at the roadside; many you can’t.
When to call for recovery
If it won’t start and you can’t safely fix it — or you’re stranded somewhere unsafe — don’t sit and wait. We’ll get you and the car recovered and taken wherever you need, 24/7. It doesn’t matter why it won’t go: if it’s broken down, we can move it.
Stuck and not starting? Call 07301 118118 — 24/7, anywhere in the UK.