What To Do When Your Car Won't Start

A car that will not start can have several possible causes, from a discharged battery to an electrical, fuel, immobiliser or mechanical fault. If you are stranded, prioritise safety before attempting repeated starts or inspections.

Check the symptoms

Listen for a click, slow cranking or normal engine cranking without starting. Check the dashboard for warning messages and note anything unusual. Do not continue trying to start the vehicle if there is smoke, a strong fuel smell or another obvious safety concern.

Could it be the battery?

A flat battery is one common reason for a vehicle not starting. If the battery is discharged, jump-start assistance may be appropriate when it is safe and suitable for the vehicle.

When recovery is needed

If a jump start does not solve the problem, or the vehicle has another fault, it may need vehicle recovery. Tell the recovery operator whether the vehicle rolls and steers and where it is located.

Get help in Hampshire

VV247 provides jump-start, breakdown and vehicle recovery enquiries across Hampshire, including Basingstoke and surrounding areas, subject to availability. See Jump Start Assistance, Breakdown Recovery or Get a Recovery Quote.