Sometimes the car starts fine and other times it just won’t start. When it does start, it runs without any issues and doesn’t stall. However, when it won’t start, the brake feels really stiff. This has been happening for months, and I thought the battery was the issue. After replacing the battery, it worked a couple of times, but now it won’t start again. I’ve been stuck with this problem for a while now. Any ideas on what’s going wrong?
It could be the starter, relay, solenoid, wiring, ignition switch, or even the battery (though it seems unlikely since you replaced it). Was the old battery tested to be bad before you swapped it out?
Logan said:
It could be the starter, relay, solenoid, wiring, ignition switch, or even the battery (though it seems unlikely since you replaced it). Was the old battery tested to be bad before you swapped it out?
We tested the old battery, and it seemed fine. We replaced it because we ordered from a different supplier and couldn’t return it.
Does the engine crank when you try to start it? If not, it could be the starter, relay, solenoid, or something similar. If the engine cranks but doesn’t start, then you might have an issue with fuel or spark. You could try spraying a little brake clean or starting fluid into the throttle body. If it starts for a second and then dies, it’s likely a fuel problem. Do you have a scan tool to check the crank and cam sensors? These might be an issue, and I’m not sure if a basic OBDII scanner like Torque can pick them up.
Can you clarify if it’s a crank-no-start or no crank situation?
Haven said:
Can you clarify if it’s a crank-no-start or no crank situation?
It’s a no-crank situation.
Haven said:
Can you clarify if it’s a crank-no-start or no crank situation?
It’s a no-crank situation.
Have you tried jump-starting it? Is anything draining the battery overnight? Also, is it a manual or automatic transmission?
@Haven
No, it won’t start even when I jump-start it. It’s an automatic transmission with a keyless start.
Haven said:
Can you clarify if it’s a crank-no-start or no crank situation?
It’s a no-crank situation.
I had the exact same issue with my Honda Fit. When I turned the key, nothing happened. The accessories would turn on, but the engine wouldn’t crank. It turned out the starter had gone bad. Here’s something that worked for me: Try tapping the starter with a broomstick while someone else turns the key to the ‘on’ position (just before the cranking position). Give it a light tap, like knocking on a door. Sometimes it worked like magic to get the engine to crank. It may take a few tries before the starter works again.
@Reilly
Thanks for the tip! Since mine is keyless and automatic, should I do anything differently?
Harley said:
@Reilly
Thanks for the tip! Since mine is keyless and automatic, should I do anything differently?
I’m not sure how the keyless system will work with that method, but if you’re able to give it a try, let me know if it helps!
You could try resetting the transmission. Put the car in neutral, turn the ignition on without cranking, and wait for a minute. The transmission control module (TCM) should reset, and you’ll see a message on the dash telling you when it’s done. Some of these cars have TCM issues that could cause problems like this. Do you have a check engine light on? If so, get the codes read.
