Q: My car won't start.

asked by on December 10, 2016

At first it wouldn't start or make a sound but all the lights still came on. It has been sitting for a couple of weeks now and the lights no longer come on. I chuck that up to it just sitting though. The main problem is that it won't start. I'm thinking starter but I'm not 100%

My car has 200000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

This may be related to a weak battery or a faulty starter relay. The starter relay directs power from the battery to the starter solenoid which then engages the starter when you turn the key. When this is not working properly, you may notice intermittent starting problems as you describe. Generally, when this does fail, it does so very randomly and usually without warning other than intermittent starting. The power from the battery will still power other accessories such as radio, horn, etc., but you may not have any power to the starter. I would recommend having an expert from YourMechanic come to your location to diagnose and replace your starter relay.

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

What does the anti-lock brake system (ABS) Warning Light mean?
The anti-lock brake system (ABS) Warning Light is located on the instrument panel. This light illuminates when your ABS is not operating properly. Since your ABS is a key part of your brake system, you should have your vehicle inspected...
Is this a transmission problem and if so does this mean the entire transmission needs to be replaced?
You should certainly let the insurance company know that your car has not been returned to its condition from before the accident. As for why your car is bucking on acceleration, I can make a few guesses, but the only...
My engine is flooding and its idle is VERY rough.
If you pull the hose off of the fuel pressure regulator on the fuel rail with the injectors, then have someone turn on the key without starting the engine to see if fuel comes out of the regulator top port...
1993 Ford F150 4.9 straight 6 fuel pump keeps running, won't start, replaced relay and fuel pressure regulator, still having the same problem
Hi, thanks for writing in. You need to have the fuel pressure checked to see if the pressure is low. The fuel pump inlet screen may be getting clogged causing the pressure to drop off but the pump will continue...
is it possible to tamper digital odometer readings?
Hello. On this vehicle it is not typically possible to adjust the mileage reading on the dash. If the instrument panel was replaced then that would contain a new mileage read out but the vehicles on board computer would always...
During ignition Taurus gagged for air, then backfired w/ smoke. Now engine light stays on & runs rough(timing off) 2005 Ford Taurus SE
Hello - the first task is to check for the problem codes which are setting the Check Engine light. This may be helpful in identifying the initial problem as well as the current problem(s). Usually, backfiring (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/car-backfiring-and-spitting) in the intake...
Is it possible to put 20" rims on a car that has 15" stock rim?
Yes you can put 20 inch rims on your vehicle but with limitations. This will depend on how wide the rims and tires will be and also if the tires will clear the struts and suspension parts when driving and...
mazda 5 minivan crankshaft pulley removal ?
Hi there. If you've never completed this type of repair, I wouldn't recommend attempting it unless you have a few things. First, purchase a service and repair manual for your Mazda 5 as it will give you detailed steps that...
My 2004 Honda Element horn makes a sound, but it's very weak. Will the horn relay replacement fix that?
Hi There, I believe you are correct in that the horn relay may be faulty or potentially you may have a bad horn switch itself, however this would be a rare situation. The horn relay (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/horn-relay-replacement) is generally what will...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy for Dog Owners
Dog Dog owners are a special breed of drivers. When they shop for a used car they have a list of requirements that can be quite different from other drivers, which tends to make the process a bit of a...
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.
Top 10 Best-Selling Cars of 2016
Ford F-series pickup trucks, Toyota Camry, and Honda Civic are some of the best-selling cars of 2016 and all deliver on reliability and efficiency.