Q: Drove in rain, parked for a day, car won't start

asked by on September 20, 2016

After driving 2 hours in rain, I parked my car for a day, and then this morning the car wouldn’t start. It will crank over, but won’t fire up. When cranking, I can see a spark on the outside of the distributor. I checked the wires and I see that there is spark getting to the plugs. Is it common for there to be a spark outside the distributor and if not, what should I do next to fix this?

Distributor Rotor and Cap Replacement $120.44 - $333.30 Get a Quote
Car is not starting Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

No, absolutely not. The good news is that this is such an obvious problem, I can tell you with a high degree of certainty that you have a cracked or otherwise failed distributer cap. Replace that cap and you should be good to go. If you would like to have this inspected, a certified professional from YourMechanic can pinpoint the cause of the no-start and let you know what should be 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


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Key wont' turn
If the key doesn't turn in the ignition, you probably need a new ignition cylinder. However, you can first check that the steering wheel is not locked. To unlock the wheel, turn it side to side while simultaneously trying to...
Truck still has no power at all
This sounds like some kind of an electrical short somewhere or potentially a faulty alternator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/alternator-replacement). If there are any check engine lights on I would suggest having the truck diagnosed with a scanning tool which would reveal any fault...
New car battery, but there is no power to the car
Hello and thank you for contacting YourMechanic. Check the fuse box for any blown fuses (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuse-replacement) that could have popped while the vehicle was at rest. If all of the fuses are okay, then check the condition of the battery...
Engine takes too long to warm up runs poor until it warms up.
There is only two possible causes of an engine running colder than it is supposed to. The fan clutch may be locked up and would cause a load on the engine and excessive airflow across the radiator not allowing the...
Engine stalls when the brakes are applied
Hello. From what you describe it would appear that your vehicle may be experiencing possible engine management or transmission issues. The symptoms you describe can commonly be caused by faulty idle air control valve. The idle air control valve is...
No start with fuel pressure regulator 2012 Nissan Juke
Hello - I believe you have a fuel supply problem, which may or may not be the fuel pressure regulator (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-fuel-pressure-regulator). Monitoring fuel pressure while the engine is being cranked, and while it's running, will help you determine the real...
Check engine light
Hi There, This light indicates that there is likely something wrong with the engine or transmission in your vehicle. It is important to have this diagnosed as soon as possible as it could range from something minor to something more...
Knocking / squeaking from rear left wheel area when turning right
The noise you are describing has to originate from the rear axle, differential, suspension or brakes. You are describing a fairly distinct and easily reproducible noise and inasmuch as there really are limited possibilities, particularly if yo have isolated it...
A/C pressure is high on both sides after compressor, condenser, accumulator, orifice change
Hi there. In general, high pressure on both high and low pressure AC sides is typically caused by an obstruction in the evaporator. In some cases, this can be a simple debris that can be cleaned if removed, while in...

Related articles

Do Cars Need Oil Changes More or Less Often As They Age?
Car engines wear out as miles add up. Older engines and engines with high mileage have lower tolerances, making more frequent oil changes necessary.
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Surge Tank Hose
Common signs include leaking radiator coolant under the right side of the car, swelling in the hose, engine overheating, and a damaged hose.
How to Replace a Vent Oil Separator
A car engine has a vent oil separator that fails when vapors clog the separator, smoke emits from the exhaust, or the Check Engine Light illuminates.