Why Your Car Won’t Start and What To Do

Cars have become an everyday part of our lives. We rely on them for work, retail therapy, and family errands. Without them, we find ourselves a bit lost. Unfortunately, we are all going to find our cars refusing to start at some point.

These are the main reasons your car won’t start and what you can do to fix it.

  • Battery

One of the most common reasons a car refuses to start is a dead battery. A simple thing, like leaving a tiny in-car light on all night, can drain it. Alternatively, if your car has been stood for a long time a battery can drain from not being used.

It could also drain naturally if your alternator is faulty or has a loose wire. The alternator charges your battery while the car is moving, if it is not working your battery will die.

If your battery is dead, it may have a light on. None of your car’s electrics will work either. If your headlights come on without a problem, then it is not a dead battery causing the issues.

To fix a dead battery you can:

– Have someone jump start your car with jump leads.

– Replace the battery.

  • Check Your Gas

Although it sounds laughable, it has happened. People have run out of gas when they have driven home from work, the thought to check the gas simply did not enter their minds. Then, when they went to start the car the next morning the car did not have enough gas to start.

If this is your problem, then you have an easy fix. Get some gas in your car.

  • Faulty Ignition Switch

If your battery is working but the car is still not turning over, you may have a faulty ignition switch. If the ignition is faulty the car will not be able to deliver power to the starter motor. Without that, your car won’t start.

You may need to replace the ignition switch. If this is the case, you can keep the same keys by having the ignition switch rebuilt. Alternatively, you can fit a new one with a new set of keys.

  • Clogged Filter

A clogged filter is an easy fix that can cause a lot of problems. Cars need fuel to run, a clogged filter prevents that fuel from reaching the engine.

Good car maintenance suggests you replace your fuel filters every 10,000 Miles.

If this is your issue, you simply need to replace the filter to get moving again.

  • Broken Starter

Your car may not be cranking when you turn your ignition key. You may be hearing a clicking noise. The car is simply not starting and though it sounds like a dead battery, your lights are working. This could be a broken or weak starter. The starter is your electrical motor that sets the engine in motion.

Before shelling out the cash for a new starter, make sure it isn’t a stuck gear first. Tapping a starter a few times with a wrench or a hammer can loosen anything stuck and get you moving again. If this doesn’t work, you probably need a new starter.

  • Check if your Engine is Flooded

If you smell gas and your car won’t start, then your problem could be a flooded engine.

To unflood an engine, crank the engine while you press the accelerator to the floor to unflood the engine. Another method is to open your hood and wait a few minutes. This will allow excess fuel to evaporate. After a few minutes, try to start the car again without pushing on the gas pedal.

In Closing

There are many reasons why a car won’t start, but by listening to the sounds of the engine and checking a few vitals you can determine the cause in most cases.

Thankfully, many of the problems that can cause a car to fail to start have quick and easy workarounds to get you moving again.

Related posts

What Does Locksmiths Really Do?

When Seconds Count: Navigating Emergency Locksmith Solutions In Miami FL

Securing Miami's Waterfront Properties

Locksmithing In Miami FL

Push Start vs. Traditional Car Keys: Which Is Better for You?

Automotive Locksmith Services: What to Expect - A Comprehensive Guide

What can an Automotive Locksmith Do?

How to Diagnose a Car Key That’s Stopped Working

Why Won’t My Car Door Open from the Inside or the Outside?

Why Every Motorcycle Owner Needs a Reliable Locksmith

Steps to Take When You Lose Your Boat Key

5 Common Mistakes Owners Make with Classic Car Security

Repairing or Replacing a Car Door - What to Expect

Why You Should Consider a Keyless Ignition for Your Boat

Steps to Take When Locked Out of Your Plane in Miami

7 of the Most Expensive Car Keys Ever Made (One for the Supercar Fans)

Why You Should Stay Away from Proximity Keys

Is It Really Necessary to Hire a Licensed Locksmith?

Locksmith Response Time: Knowing What's Acceptable

Hire a Car Locksmith or Go the DIY Route?

How to Protect Yourself from Locksmith Scams in Downtown Miami

How do you open a trunk without a key

Why won't your key turn inside its lock

Where are Keys Made Near Me 3 Key Options That are Always Close-By

24 Hours Locksmith Services in Miami FL

Diagnose your vehicle remote quickly & effectively

24-Hours Locksmith Services In The Brickell City Centre

How To Find The Nearest Locksmith To Your Location In Miami FL

Beach to Boardwalk: Miami Beach's 24/7 Emergency Locksmith Services

Locked Yourself Out in Doral FL? Your Round-the-Clock Emergency Locksmith Solutions Is Near You

24/7 Expert Locksmith Services For Baldwin Locks In Miami FL

getint-icon-banner
About the author
David Davidof is the founder & owner of Quickly Locksmith. The business has grown from strength to strength to become Miami’s go-to provider for Locksmith and Security services. Whilst the company has grown, the founding ethos has remained the same - Helping people in emergency situations and giving them the feeling they are safe.
image_to_use_for_author_page
icon testimonials
TESTIMONIALS

What Our Clients In Miami Are Saying About Us

Customer satisfaction has always been at the heart of our work. Our reviews reflect the dedication, expertise, and reliability we bring to every job.

Tanya smith - Client Review Quickly Locksmith Miami

Tanya Smith

stars

Needed new keys made and couldn’t believe how quick and professional Adir was!!! He came within 5 minutes of my call, made 3 keys, cleaned up, and I was done within 10 minutes!!! He was very professional too. Absolutely blown away and great value too.

Steph peñaherrera - Client Review

Steph Peñaherrera

stars

I had an outstanding experience with Quickly Locksmith From the moment I walked in, they were professional, fast, extremely helpful, and got the job done quickly without any hassle. It’s rare to find a company in Miami that is this reliable and honest.

Ben kessler - Client Review

Ben Kessler

stars

They did a fantastic job! I used them for both my previous apartment and my current one and highly recommend them. Great customer service and they stand by their work. Natalie is wonderful!

Some of our satisfied clients in Miami:

icon getint
GET IN TOUCH

Let’s talk about your security requirements & needs

    image left tips
    icon tips
    TIPS

    Our Tips For Getting The Best Locksmith Services In Miami FL:

    We truly care about your security. Keeping you, your family and your most valuable possessions safe is why we are in business. However, whenever you are looking to hire professional services from a locksmith in Miami, here are some valuable tips to make the right choice.

    FAQ

    HOW DO I KNOW WHETHER MY MIAMI LOCKSMITH IS CERTIFIED?
    In Miami-Dade County, licensed locksmiths are issued an official Locksmith ID card after completing the required application process and passing background checks. By law, they must carry and display this card at all times while providing locksmith services, regardless of the location. Always request to see it before any work begins to ensure you’re hiring a certified professional.
    HOW LONG WILL A LOCKSMITH TAKE TO ARRIVE?
    Our team aims to arrive at your exact location within 15 minutes. This rapid response time helps ensure you’re back inside your home, car, or business as quickly and safely as possible.
    WHAT DOES A CERTIFICATION GUARANTEE?
    Hiring a certified Miami locksmith means your service is backed by a full warranty — covering your locks, your property (including doors, hallways, and related areas), and your personal safety. If any issues occur during the job, you hold zero liability, and your locks and security systems are 100% insured for complete peace of mind.
    CAN A MIAMI LOCKSMITH OPEN ALL LOCKS?
    With the right tools and years of experience, a professional locksmith can open almost any lock without causing damage. In rare cases where unlocking isn’t possible, the lock can be safely replaced. Either way, your property and valuables will remain fully secure.
    CAN AN AUTO LOCKSMITH CREATE A SPARE KEY AT MY LOCATION?
    Yes. If you’re locked out or need a spare key, Our mobile unit will come directly to your location. Our technicians can create and program a replacement car key on the spot, saving you the hassle of arranging transportation to a locksmith shop.
    DO I NEED THE ORIGINAL KEY TO MAKE A KEY COPY?
    Not necessarily. If your original key is lost or damaged, a certified Miami locksmith can use a code cutter to read the lock’s unique key code and determine the correct groove depths. This precise information allows us to create a brand-new key without needing the original.
    ARE YOU AVAILABLE 24/7 FOR EMERGENCIES?
    Yes. We operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — including nights, weekends, and holidays. No matter when you’re locked out or facing a security issue, our team is ready to respond immediately.
    HOW MUCH DOES A LOCKSMITH SERVICE COST IN MIAMI?
    Costs depend on the service type, lock complexity, and time of day. We provide upfront, transparent quotes before starting any job, so there are no hidden fees or surprises. Emergency services may have additional charges for after-hours calls.
    CAN YOU REKEY LOCKS INSTEAD OF REPLACING THEM?
    Yes. Rekeying allows you to keep your existing locks while changing the internal pins so old keys no longer work. It’s a cost-effective security upgrade often used after moving, losing keys, or changing tenants or employees.
    DO YOU INSTALL SMART LOCKS AND HIGH-SECURITY SYSTEMS?
    Absolutely. We install a wide range of smart locks, high-security deadbolts, and advanced access control systems for homes, businesses, and vehicles. Our experts can recommend the best solution based on your security needs and budget.
    CAN YOU MAKE KEYS FOR HIGH-SECURITY OR RESTRICTED LOCKS?
    Yes. We have the tools and authorization to cut and program keys for many high-security and restricted lock systems. Some models require proof of ownership or manufacturer authorization, which we’ll guide you through before starting the work.
    WHAT AREAS OF MIAMI DO YOU SERVICE?
    We cover all of Miami-Dade County, including Downtown Miami, Wynwood, Miami Beach, Coral Gables, Brickell, Aventura, Kendall, and surrounding neighborhoods. Our mobile units allow us to reach you quickly anywhere in the area.
    CAN YOU HELP WITH BROKEN KEYS STUCK IN LOCKS?
    Yes. Our locksmiths use specialized extraction tools to remove broken keys without damaging the lock. If necessary, we can also cut you a new key or rekey the lock during the same visit.
    DO YOU OFFER COMMERCIAL LOCKSMITH SERVICES?
    Absolutely. We provide a full range of commercial services, including master key systems, high-security locks, access control, panic bars, and storefront door repair. We work with offices, retail stores, warehouses, and property managers across Miami.
    HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY HOME OR BUSINESS SECURITY?
    We recommend starting with a security audit to identify vulnerabilities. This may include upgrading to high-security locks, adding deadbolts, installing smart locks, reinforcing entry doors, and securing windows. We provide tailored recommendations based on your property and budget.
    Service Areas

    Our Service Areas In Miami:

    Find The Nearest Locksmith To Your Location in Miami FL

    icon blog short
    BLOG

    Check Out The Latest Security Updates On Our Blog

    Custom Doors Guide For 2025

    What Kind of Locks a Locksmith Can’t Open

    The Difference Between Scam Locksmiths And Real Locksmith In Miami FL

    How to Secure High-Rise Windows in Miami

    Smart Locks Upgrade In 2025? All The Latest Security News From CES 2025

    icon branches
    LOCATIONS

    Our Locations in Miami FL

    icon Quickly Locksith Miami Locations

    Come And Visit Inside Our Locksmith Stores In Miami, FL!

    Midtown Miami Location: 2680 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33137.
    Downtown Miami Location: 26 SE 1st St, Miami, FL 33131.

    Professional and Certified Locksmith Installers For
    All Of The Top Locks & Keys Brands