First: quick checks you can do safely
- Check the dashboard lights: do they come on normally?
- Listen: does it crank, click, or do nothing?
- If you have a spare key: try it once.
- Don’t keep cranking: repeated attempts can flatten the battery and complicate diagnosis.
Most common causes (in order)
🔋 Weak / flat battery
The #1 cause. Signs: slow cranking, clicking, dim dash lights, or no power. We can test the battery and charging system and replace the battery on site if needed.
⚡ Charging / alternator issue
If it keeps going flat or died while driving, the alternator may not be charging properly. We’ll test charging voltage and load to confirm the real fault.
🔌 Starter motor fault
Dash lights on but the engine won’t turn over properly? The starter motor or solenoid may be failing. We diagnose first, then quote.
🔐 Immobiliser / key not recognised
If the key isn’t being recognised, the car may crank but not fire, or do nothing. Trying a spare key helps narrow this quickly.
⛽ Fuel delivery problem
Fuel pump faults, blocked filters or sensor issues can prevent starting. Diagnostics helps avoid swapping parts blindly.
🧠 Electrical / sensor fault
Relays, fuses, wiring, earth faults, crank sensors and modules can all cause a non-start. Proper fault-finding gets to the answer faster.
How we handle non-start call-outs
We bring professional diagnostics and testing equipment to identify the fault accurately. We’ll explain what’s wrong in plain English and confirm the price before any work starts.
Need help now?
WhatsApp your reg, postcode and what happened (cranks/clicks/dead).