My car won't start but the lights come on - what's wrong?

Car Maintenance & Repairs
1

I’ve been having a frustrating issue with my car recently. When I try to start it, nothing happens—no engine cranking at all—yet all the lights on the dashboard come on. This has left me scratching my head as to what could be wrong.

Here are a few details about the situation:

  • The battery is relatively new, replaced just a few months ago.
  • The lights dim slightly when I try to start it, but they don’t go out completely.
  • I haven’t noticed any strange noises when I turn the key, just silence.
  • All electrical accessories (radio, windows, etc.) seem to work fine.

I’m wondering if anyone has experienced a similar issue or has any insights into what could be causing this. Is it likely a problem with the starter, or could it be a more complex electrical issue? Any advice or troubleshooting tips would be greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance for your help!

2

It sounds like your battery might be weak or dead. Common signs include dim lights or slow cranking. Have you checked the battery terminals for corrosion?

3

Exactly! If you see corrosion, cleaning it could help. Also, check if the battery is over 3-5 years old; it might just need replacing.

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4

Have you tried jump-starting? Sometimes all it needs is a little boost. Just be careful with the cables!

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5

Thanks for the tip! I haven’t tried that yet. Do you have any tips on how to do it safely?

6

Sure! Connect the positive terminals first, then the negative. Make sure the other car is running. Don’t forget to wear gloves!

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7

Good point! Safety first! Also, if you hear clicking when attempting to start, it could be the battery.

8

I’m curious, have you checked the alternator as well? Sometimes a failing alternator can lead to battery issues.

9

No, I haven’t! What signs should I look for to determine if the alternator is the issue?

10

Look for flickering lights or strange noises. If your battery seems fine but still won’t start, that could indicate an alternator problem.

11

Got it! If it is the battery, how can I tell when it needs replacement?

12

Typically, if it’s older than 5 years, showing bulging, or if it won’t hold a charge after jump-starting, it’s time for a new battery.

13

Thanks for all the info! I hope it’s just a simple issue, like the battery. I’ll try jump-starting it!

14

It sounds like a starter motor issue. Just because the lights come on doesn’t mean the starter is working. Have you tried tapping on it lightly while someone turns the key?

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15

I had a similar problem last month! It turned out to be the ignition system. Check if you’re getting spark when you crank the engine.

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16

If the starter motor is fine, it could be a fuel issue. Make sure you’ve got gas! Sometimes the gauge lies. Double-check before moving to complex issues!

17

Good point! Did you hear about that guy who ran out of gas while thinking his car was fine? Always check the basics first!

18

Another thing to consider is the battery connections. Sometimes they get corroded. A quick clean and secure connection can solve the problem instantly.

19

Exactly! A loose connection caused my sister’s car to not start last week. Check that before anything else!

20

You might want to listen for clicking noises when turning the key. If you hear clicking but nothing else, that’s a strong sign that the starter is having issues.