When the engine won't turn over - Step by step guide
The most likely problems that could cause an engine to die of would be:
Step 1
Set the emergency brake.
Step 2
If you are using automatic transmission, turn the key while holding the gearshift
lever firmly in the park position. If nothing happens, try again with the
lever in neutral position. If using a manual transmission, be sure to push
the clutch pedal all the way to the floor. If the car starts up after any
of these steps, a faulty safty neutral switch causes the problem. If the
engine refuses to turn over, remove the keys from the ignition and follow
these next steps.
Step 3
Tighten any loose battery cables. When tightening the positive cable, ensure
that you are not touching any metal while the wrench is connected to the
cable. This will help avoid arching, which could damage the battery.
Step 4
Check for corrosion where the battery cables connect to the battery. If you see
signs of corrosion, remove the battery cables beginning with the positive side.
Now, clean both the inside of the cable end and the battery post using a wire
battery brush. Do not reconnect the positive cable until the negative side
of the battery has been cleaned.
Step 5
Reconnect the red battery cable to the battery post marked with a "plus" (+)
symbol.
Step 6
Reconnect the black negative cable to the battery post marked with the 'minus'
(-) symbol. After completing these steps, try to start the engine. If the
engine still refuses to turn over, the battery will need to be jump-started.
Step 7
When all else fails, call AAM Breakdown at Toll Free: 1-800-88-0808
Article contributed by AAM