Car Won't Start? Here's What To Do First.
A car that won't start is one of the most common breakdowns on Perth roads — and often, it's simpler to fix than it feels in the moment. Here's how to work out what's wrong before you call anyone.
1. Listen to what happens when you turn the key
The sound (or silence) you hear is the biggest clue:
- Rapid clicking, no engine turn-over — almost always a flat or weak battery.
- One loud click, nothing else — could be the battery, or a faulty starter motor.
- Complete silence, no lights, no sound — check your battery terminals, or it may be a flat battery with no charge at all.
- Engine cranks but won't catch — this points to a fuel or ignition issue rather than the battery.
2. Check the easy things first
- Are your headlights or interior lights dim or off? That's a strong sign of a flat battery.
- Is the gear shifter fully in Park (automatic) or is the clutch fully pressed (manual)? Cars won't start if this safety switch isn't engaged properly.
- Is your key fob battery low? Some cars won't recognise a weak fob signal, which can look identical to an engine fault.
Don't keep cranking the engine repeatedly. Repeated attempts can drain the battery further or damage the starter motor. If it doesn't start within a couple of tries, stop and call for help instead.
3. When it's a simple jump-start
If the symptoms point to a flat battery and you're safely parked, a jump-start is often all that's needed. If you don't have jumper cables, another driver, or a portable jump pack handy, this is exactly the kind of call-out we handle every day — most jump-starts are done in well under 30 minutes.
4. When it's something bigger
If the battery isn't the issue — or a jump-start gets you going but the car won't restart later — it's likely the alternator, starter motor, or a fuel system fault. These need a proper mechanic, and the safest move is a tow rather than repeated attempts to restart on the roadside.
5. Stay safe while you wait
- Turn on your hazard lights.
- If you're on a busy road or freeway, stay inside the vehicle with your seatbelt on if it's not safe to exit.
- If you're able to safely exit, stand well away from traffic, ideally behind a barrier.