by Robert Nichols

Created on: February 10, 2007   Last Updated: April 10, 2007

There are far to many causes to list them all. The most common are a weak battery, bad starter, loose wire connections, blown fuses, or you ran out of fuel.

When you turn the ignition key check to see if all the warning lights are illuminating. Check if your head lights come on. If not probably the battery. You could attempt to jump start the vehicle. Just remember to attach the positive lead to the battery positive terminal and the ground on the dead vehicle to the engine block not the negative terminal on the battery.

If that does not work:

When you turn the ignition key all the way to the start position what happens?
If for example you hear rapid clicking you could have a sticking starter solenoid. You can tap lightly on the solenoid, while cranking the engine and usually they free up and your car will start.

If you here nothing than you probably have a break in the electrical circuit, you can check for a blown fuse, but at this point your best bet is to call for backup.

If your engine is cranking over but will not fire your problem is either a lack of spark or lack of fuel. Did your fuel lines freeze up? Are you sure your fuel gauge works? Again if your not a mechanic phone one.

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