Car Won’t Start, But Lights Come On – What Should I Do?

A frustrating situation for any driver is when the car won’t start, but the lights come on. This can leave you stranded and confused about the cause of the problem. Fortunately, there are a few common issues that can lead to this scenario. In this article, we’ll explore the possible causes, how to troubleshoot them, and what you can do to get back on the road.

Car Won’t Start, But Lights Come On – Possible Causes

Dead or Weak Battery

A dead or weak battery is one of the most common reasons for a car not starting while the lights still come on. The battery may have enough power to operate the lights and accessories but not enough to crank the engine.

Faulty Starter Motor

The starter motor is responsible for turning the engine over when you turn the key. If it fails, the engine won’t crank even though the lights and other electrical systems may still function.

Bad Ignition Switch

The ignition switch sends power to the starter motor when you turn the key. A faulty ignition switch can cause a no-start condition, while the lights and other accessories still function properly.

Malfunctioning Neutral Safety Switch

The neutral safety switch prevents the engine from starting when the transmission is not in park or neutral. If the switch malfunctions, it can prevent the car from starting even though the lights are on.

Damaged Starter Relay

The starter relay is an electrical component that sends power to the starter motor. If the relay is damaged or malfunctioning, it may not send the necessary power to the starter, preventing the engine from cranking.

Blown Fuses

Blown fuses can cause a no-start condition if they are responsible for supplying power to critical starting components, such as the ignition switch, starter motor, or fuel pump.

Troubleshooting Tips

Check the Battery

First, inspect the battery for any visible signs of damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage. A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts. If the voltage is low, try charging the battery or jump-starting the vehicle.

Inspect the Starter Motor

Locate the starter motor under the hood and check for any loose connections or signs of damage. You can also try tapping the starter with a hammer to see if it will engage. If the starter is still not functioning, it may need to be replaced.

Test the Ignition Switch

You can test the ignition switch by using a test light or multimeter. With the key in the “start” position, check for power at the starter solenoid. If there’s no power, the ignition switch may be faulty.

Examine the Neutral Safety Switch

To test the neutral safety switch, try starting the car in both park and neutral. If the car starts in one position but not the other, the switch may be malfunctioning and require replacement.

Investigate the Starter Relay

Locate the starter relay in your vehicle’s fuse box. Check for any signs of damage or corrosion. You can also swap the relay with a similar one to see if the issue is resolved.

Look for Blown Fuses

Inspect your vehicle’s fuse box for any blown fuses related to the starting system. Replace any blown fuses and try starting the car again.

How to Jumpstart a Car

1. Gather Necessary Tools
2. Position Both Vehicles
3. Connect Jumper Cables
4. Start the Donor Vehicle
5. Attempt to Start Your Vehicle
6. Disconnect Jumper Cables

When to Call a Professional Mechanic

• Persistent Starting Issues
• Unfamiliar Noises
• Warning Lights Remain On
• Inability to Diagnose the Problem

How to Prevent Future Starting Problems

• Regular Battery Maintenance
• Timely Starter Motor Inspection
• Proper Ignition System Care
• Routine Checks of the Electrical System

FAQs about Car Starting Problems

Q: How do I know if my car battery is dead or just weak?

A: The easiest way to determine if your battery is dead or weak is by using a multimeter to measure the voltage. A healthy battery should have a voltage of around 12.6 volts. If it’s below 12 volts, the battery is likely weak and may need to be recharged or replaced.

Q: Can I still jumpstart my car if the battery is completely dead?

A: It’s possible to jumpstart a car with a completely dead battery, but it may take longer for the donor vehicle to charge the dead battery before your car can be started.

Q: Can a bad alternator cause my car not to start, even if the lights come on?

A: Yes, a bad alternator can cause starting issues. The alternator is responsible for charging the battery, so if it’s not functioning properly, the battery may not have enough power to crank the engine, even if the lights come on.

Q: Can a faulty fuel pump cause my car not to start, but still allow the lights to come on?

A: Yes, a faulty fuel pump can cause your car not to start while the lights still come on. However, this issue is typically accompanied by other symptoms, such as poor engine performance, stalling, or difficulty starting when the engine is warm.

Q: Can a security system or immobilizer cause my car not to start, but the lights come on?

A: Yes, a security system or immobilizer can prevent your car from starting while still allowing the lights to come on. If you suspect this is the issue, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for information on how to reset or disable the system.