Car trouble is frustrating and when your car won’t start but the lights come on, it can be difficult to know how to proceed. The good news is that this is a common issue and there are a few easy steps you can take to diagnose and potentially solve the issue. In this blog post, we’ll be discussing what to do when your car won’t start but the lights come on.
We’ll discuss why this may be happening, possible causes, and what steps you can take to solve the problem. Whether you’re a car expert or a beginner, this blog post has the information you need to help troubleshoot and potentially fix the issue.
We’ll be providing tips and helpful advice so you can get back on the road quickly and safely. So, if you’re looking for answers to this common car problem, read on to learn more.
1. Check battery voltage
One of the first steps you should take if your car won’t start but the lights come on is to check the battery voltage. The battery is the most common cause of a car that won’t start and there could be many things that cause it to be discharged, from a defect in the alternator to leaving headlights on overnight.
Checking the voltage is easy with a multimeter or battery tester. You should be able to see the voltage on the display or on the testing device’s LCD. If the voltage is below 12.6 volts, the battery is discharged and needs to be recharged.
2. Check fuel system
The next step in troubleshooting why your car won’t start but the lights come on is to check the fuel system. Start by looking for any signs of fuel leakage, such as puddles or stains. If you find any, it could be a sign of a faulty fuel line, so take your car to a mechanic if you find any leaks.
If there are no signs of leaks, open the hood and inspect the fuel filter to make sure it is clean and free of debris. If it is not, it could be a sign of a clogged fuel line, which might prevent fuel from reaching the engine. If you find any problems, it is best to take your car to a mechanic to have it fixed.
3. Check starter motor
The third thing to check when your car won’t start but the lights come on is the starter motor. The starter motor is responsible for starting the engine and is usually located at the front of the engine.
To check it, you’ll need to locate it and remove the protective cover. Afterward, use a multimeter to test for electrical current and check for any loose connections. If the starter motor is faulty, it will need to be replaced.
4. Check spark plugs
If your car won’t start but the lights come on, the fourth thing you should check is the spark plugs. The spark plugs are responsible for igniting the fuel and air mixture in the engine, allowing the car to start. If the spark plugs are not working properly, the car will not start.
Make sure the spark plugs are clean and in good condition. If they are worn or have buildup on them, they should be replaced. If you have checked the spark plugs and they seem to be in good condition, it is possible that the spark plug wires are either loose or damaged.
5. Check fuel pump/filter
The fifth and most common cause of a car that won’t start but has lights is a faulty fuel pump and/or fuel filter. If your car has a fuel pump, it is located in the fuel tank and is responsible for pumping fuel from the tank to the engine.
The fuel filter is also located in the fuel tank and is responsible for trapping dirt, debris, and other contaminants from entering the fuel system. If either of these components is blocked or not working properly, your car may not start. To check the fuel pump and filter, you will need to inspect the fuel tank and, if necessary, replace the fuel pump or filter.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a car that won’t start but lights turn on can be a daunting problem to solve. However, with a few simple steps, you can narrow down the source of the issue and get your car running again. Check the battery, fuel, and spark, and if there is still an issue, it’s best to take the car to a qualified professional for further diagnosis and repair.
