What to do if the car does not start: 6 life hacks

A car that gets stuck on the road and won't start is a serious problem. And there can be many reasons for this. Professional mechanics say that in many cases, the cause can be identified by side signs and the problem can be easily fixed.

Sante Plus has compiled a list of life hacks. Experts explained how you can start the car to at least get to a car service center.

The car clicks but won't start

If your car makes its typical clicking sounds but still can't start, it could be due to a weak battery, dirty terminals or worn-out starter or fuel pump. Here's what you can do about it.

If the instrument panel is on, turn the ignition key

If the dashboard lights up but the car still can't start, it means that the battery has very little charge left in it or is completely dead. You can use a trick with the ignition key to "cheer" it up a bit. Turn the key to the home position about 10 times in a row. Stop and wait for five minutes. The engine should start again.

If the battery is fine, check its terminals

Another cause of battery failure may be that the battery terminals are dirty and not making good contact. You can remove them and shake or tap them together. After that, you should try starting the car again.

Tap the starter

If you have access to the starter, you can also gently tap it with something heavy. Sometimes its electrical contacts get stuck, in which case they can be unlocked by tapping.

If nothing happens when you turn the key, use manual transmission

If your car does not start and does not make any sounds when you turn the key, keep your foot on the brake pedal and shift the manual transmission lever to neutral. Then try to drive off. If necessary, try again several times. Shifting the gear lever to neutral can sometimes help restore the flow of electrical current inside the selector lever.

Revive the fuel pump

Sometimes the fuel pump can cause starting problems. To bring it back to life, try knocking on the bottom of the fuel tank several times and then start the car.

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