PullCar won't start or cranks but won't start
General info, not professional advice. These are common causes that apply to most cars, not a diagnosis of yours. If you are unsure or a problem affects brakes, steering, airbags or fuel, see a qualified mechanic.
Likely causes (most common first)
- Weak or dead battery
Clicking, dim lights or slow cranking are classic signs.
🔎 Find a used battery - Corroded or loose battery cables
White or green crust on the terminals, or a loose clamp.
🔎 Find a used battery cable - Bad starter
A single click or no sound while the lights stay bright.
🔎 Find a used starter - No fuel delivery (fuel pump)
It cranks normally but won't fire, and you may not hear the pump hum when you turn the key.
🔎 Find a used fuel pump - Ignition problem (coil, plugs, crank sensor)
It cranks but won't catch, sometimes with a check engine light.
🔎 Find a used ignition coil
Quick safe checks
- Turn on the headlights. If they're dim or go out while cranking, suspect the battery or cables.
- Check that the battery terminals are tight and clean.
- Listen for the fuel pump hum for about 2 seconds when you turn the key to ON.
- Try a jump start. If it starts right away, the battery or charging system is likely the issue.
- Check your fuel level. Gauges can be wrong.
Safety first
- ⚠️ Car batteries can spark and give off explosive gas. Wear eye protection, take off metal jewelry, and disconnect the negative (−) cable first.
When to see a pro
It cranks fine but won't start after these checks, you smell fuel, or the security/anti-theft light is flashing.