Q: Car won't start after someone tried to steal it
I can't start my car. Someone messed with the steering column when they tried to steal my car.
Recommended Services
| Car is not starting Inspection | $94.99 - $114.99 | Get a Quote |
Two systems in the column need to work for the engine to start. The ignition switch, and the anti-theft system. Your car has some version of the Passlock anti-theft. The ignition switch reads a specific resistance of your key and tells the PCM it’s ok to start the engine. This is easily broken. Another thing to check is for blown fuses. When certain parts are broken in an attempt to start the car, it can cause the ignition circuits to short. Repairs and replacements will depend on how much damage was done and where. I would recommend having a mechanic come and inspect your starting issue in order to have the right repairs done.
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
What others are asking
How do I turn on the daytime running lights?
The daytime running lights are dimmer versions of the headlights. The will come on automatically when the vehicle is turned on, the parking brake is released, and the headlights are not turned on.
Battery Light on
Hello! The Battery Light indicates that there is a failure in the charging system. This should be diagnosed and repaired sooner than later, as a failing charging system can leave you stranded. The charging system needs to be tested to...
Electronic throttle control light is on
Newer cars don't have a choke like the old cars did. The throttle body actually has a small gap that acts as the choke. If this gap gets clogged, and it does from time to time, the car wont start....
Information about Techron
Techron is a product made by Chevron that is a cleaner. It's a very good cleaner and it cleans fuel injection systems. It's basically a nitrogen-based cleaner that works very good on modern cars. A lot of companies use them...
Check engine and cruise control lights come on simultaneously
Hello. When the Check Engine Light comes on, it disables the cruise control (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/how-cruise-control-works). I would need to know the code to be able to tell what may be going on. I typically start by scanning the computer for codes...
Car involuntarily accelerates 2-car lengths 1 out of 100 times
Hello. This can be a dangerous issue and does happen on this vehicle. Typically I have repaired this with updating the computers in the vehicle. Some of the time when the degeneration is not working correctly it is because the...
the engine turns over but wont start
You may have a distributor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/distributor-rotor-and-cap-replacement) that is not giving off spark or the timing belt (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/timing-belt-replacement) or chain has jumped timing and the valves are hitting the pistons. This is dependent on the vehicle and engine you have. Some...
Ignition problems
Hello. If you are losing battery power to particular circuits then most of the time this is caused by a bad ground connection, a failing battery cable (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-cable-replacement), or it may be a bad transmission position sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/transmission-position-sensor-switch-replacement). It is...
a lot of play in rear axle.
Hi there. The rear end pinion engages with a ring gear and the other end of the pinion is supported on a tapered roller bearing. If there is any radial play in the pinion or axles itself, there is a...
Related articles
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2011 Buick Lucerne
2011 2011 marked the final year of production for the Buick Lucerne, a venerable full-sized sedan that offers ample room in the interior. The car was noted for the significant amount of interior space and trunk space offered, although it...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Ignition Ignitor
Common signs include engine misfires, the Check Engine Light coming on, car not starting, and a decrease in power, acceleration, and fuel efficiency.
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Starter
Common signs include the engine not turning over, starter engaging but not spinning the motor, and grinding noises or smoke when starting the motor.
Browse other content
Maintenance
Cities