As soon as you notice that your engine isn’t firing up as easily as usual, you’ll want to alert the mechanic. This way, you’ll have the best chance to address the problem before it escalates and prevents your car from starting at all. At Jake’s Auto Repair, our local mechanics are highly experienced with identifying and fixing issues that cause hard-starts and no-starts. We’ll make sure that the problem is thoroughly addressed so that you can trust your vehicle to reliably fire up.

Why is my car struggling to start?

A failing starter is often to blame for no-start. If you stick your key in the ignition and turn it, but then get nothing except a clicking sound, then you’ve got a well-known sign of starter failure. Another sign of starter trouble is that your dash lights illuminate but your engine won’t fire up.

Fuel-related issues are often why engines don’t start. A bad fuel pump can prevent gas from successfully traveling from the tank to the engine. Symptoms of fuel pump trouble include power loss, sputtering, and worsening gas mileage. A clogged fuel filter can also cause hard-starts or no-start if it’s preventing the proper passage of fuel. For optimal performance and gas mileage, it’s best to replace your fuel filter every 20,000 to 30,000 miles. Gunked-up fuel injectors may also make it harder for your vehicle to fire up. 

Another potential cause of no-start is that you have a battery/charging system problem. After you install a new battery, it should work reliably for three to five years, if not longer. But if it dies sooner and not because of an obvious issue like leaving your lights on, then you could have a failing alternator. With a bad alternator, you may notice issues with electrical accessories like your power seats or radio. An alternator issue might also cause your headlights to dim/flicker. 

Auto Repair in Phoenix, AZ

When you need auto repair in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Jake’s Auto Repair at 602-246-4900. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment! And be sure to check out our current special offers!