My Car Starts Sometimes and Sometimes It Doesn’t? (Solved!)

Why My Car Starts Sometimes and Sometimes It Doesn’t? It’s frustrating, no doubt. But don’t worry, there are a few common culprits that could be causing this issue.

These are the reasons, a dying or dead battery, loose or corroded connection cables, a faulty alternator, or a problem with the starter are to blame. However, distinguishing between a battery problem and an alternator issue can sometimes be tricky.

So, let’s dive into the details and find out why your car starts sometimes and sometimes it doesn’t.

Common Causes of Car Starts Sometimes and Sometimes It Doesn’t:

When your car starts sometimes and sometimes it doesn’t, it can be frustrating and leave you stranded. Here are some common causes of car starting problems that you should be aware of:

1. Battery Issues: A dying or dead battery is one of the most common culprits. If you hear a clicking sound when you turn the key, it could indicate a weak battery. Check the battery connections for corrosion or looseness. Sometimes, a simple jump-start can get your car running again temporarily.
2. Faulty Starter: The starter is responsible for initiating the engine’s combustion process. If you turn the key and only hear a grinding noise or nothing at all, it may indicate a faulty starter. In this case, you might need to replace it.
3. Alternator Problems: The alternator is responsible for charging the battery while the engine is running. If your car’s battery keeps dying, it could be due to a faulty alternator. A multimeter can help you determine if the alternator is working correctly.
4. Ignition Switch Issues: A faulty ignition switch can prevent your car from starting consistently. If the key doesn’t turn smoothly or you have to jiggle it to start the engine, it might be time to replace the ignition switch.
5. Fuel Delivery Problems: Insufficient fuel supply or a clogged fuel filter can cause starting issues. If your car doesn’t start, check if you have enough fuel and ensure that the fuel filter is clean and not clogged.
6. Spark Plug Malfunction: Faulty spark plugs can prevent your engine from starting. Over time, spark plugs can wear out, resulting in an inconsistent or weak spark. Replacing them regularly can help maintain proper ignition.
7. Wiring and Connection Issues: Loose or corroded connection cables can disrupt the flow of electricity to the starter or battery. Inspect the cables and connections for any signs of damage or corrosion and repair or replace them if necessary.

Remember, diagnosing car starting problems can sometimes be challenging. If you’re unsure about the cause or unable to fix the issue yourself, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic for a proper diagnosis and repair.

More Reasons of Car Starts Sometimes Sometimes Just Clicks:

Possible Cause	Symptoms	Diagnosis
Dead battery	The car will not start at all, or it will start but then die shortly after.	Check the battery voltage with a voltmeter. If the voltage is low, the battery may be dead.
Faulty ignition switch	The car will not start at all, or it will start but then die shortly after.	Check the ignition switch for continuity. If the switch is not working properly, it may not be able to supply enough power to the starter motor.
Bad starter	The car will not start at all, or it will start but then die shortly after.	Listen for the starter motor to engage when you turn the key in the ignition. If you do not hear the starter motor engage, it may be bad.
Corroded battery terminals	The car may start but then die shortly after.	Check the battery terminals for corrosion. If the terminals are corroded, clean them with a wire brush and apply a thin coat of dielectric grease.
Low fuel level	The car may start but then die shortly after.	Check the fuel level. If the fuel level is too low, fill up the tank and try starting the car again.
Other problemsThere are a number of other possible problems that could cause your car to start sometimes and sometimes it doesn’t. These include problems with the fuel pump, the spark plugs, the engine timing, or the computer.	If you have checked all of the above and your car still won’t start, you may need to take it to a mechanic to diagnose the problem.

1. Dying or Dead Battery:

When it comes to your car’s starting issues, one of the common culprits is a dying or dead battery. Your battery provides the necessary electrical power to start the engine, and if it’s not functioning properly, you’ll experience intermittent starting problems.

Here are a few key points to understand about a dying or dead battery:

1. Battery Age: Over time, a car battery naturally loses its ability to hold a charge. If your battery is several years old, it may be reaching the end of its lifespan and struggling to provide consistent power.
2. Extreme Temperatures: Extreme cold or hot weather can put additional strain on your battery. Low temperatures can cause the battery to lose power, while high temperatures can accelerate the internal degradation of the battery.
3. Parasitic Drains: Certain components in your car, such as the clock, alarm system, or even a smartphone charger left plugged in, can drain power from the battery when the engine is off. If you have any of these drains, they can gradually deplete the battery, making it harder to start the car.
4. Corrosion and Loose Connections: Corrosion on the battery terminals or loose connection cables can lead to poor electrical contact. This can prevent the battery from delivering adequate power to start the engine reliably.
5. Faulty Charging System: A faulty alternator may fail to recharge the battery while the engine is running. If the alternator is not functioning properly, it may not provide enough power to keep the battery charged, resulting in starting issues.

To determine if your car’s starting problem is due to a dying or dead battery, you can try jump-starting the vehicle. If it starts successfully with a jump, it’s a good indication that the battery needs to be replaced.

However, if the problem persists even after a jump-start, it might be worth checking other potential causes, such as the alternator or starter.

Key Points- Battery age affects its performance- Extreme temperatures can strain the battery- Parasitic drains can deplete the battery- Corrosion and loose connections impact electrical contact- A faulty alternator can cause charging issues

2. Loose or Corroded Connection Cables:

When your car experiences intermittent starting issues, one possible culprit to consider is loose or corroded connection cables.

These cables play a crucial role in transmitting power from the battery to the starter, igniting the engine. Over time, these cables can become loose or develop corrosion, leading to poor electrical conductivity and unreliable starting.

Here are a few key points to understand about loose or corroded connection cables:

1. Symptoms: If you encounter difficulty starting your vehicle, pay attention to any signs that may suggest a problem with the connection cables. These can include sporadic or weak cranking noises when turning the ignition key, dimming headlights, or intermittent power loss.
2. Causes: There are a few factors that can contribute to loose or corroded connection cables. Exposure to moisture, road salt, and other corrosive substances can lead to the formation of rust or corrosion on the cables. Additionally, vibrations from regular vehicle operation can gradually loosen the connections.
3. Inspection and Maintenance: To determine if loose or corroded connection cables are the cause of your starting issues, you can perform a visual inspection. Check both ends of the cables, including the battery terminals and the connections to the starter. Look for any signs of corrosion, such as greenish or whitish deposits. If you notice any damage or corrosion, it’s essential to address it promptly.
4. Cleaning and Tightening: If you find corrosion on the connection cables, it’s crucial to clean them thoroughly. Disconnect the cables from the battery terminals and use a wire brush or battery terminal cleaner to remove the corrosion. Afterward, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to prevent future corrosion. Ensure that all connections are securely tightened to maintain a good electrical connection.
5. Professional Assistance: If you are unsure about performing the inspection and maintenance yourself, it is always recommended to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and address connection cable issues effectively.

Symptoms	– Sporadic or weak cranking noises – Dimming headlights – Intermittent power loss
Causes	– Exposure to moisture and corrosive substances – Vibrations leading to loosened connections
Inspection and Maintenance	– Perform visual inspection – Clean cables using wire brush or battery terminal cleaner – Apply petroleum jelly to prevent future corrosion – Ensure secure tightening
Professional Assistance	– Seek help from a qualified mechanic if unsure

3. Faulty Alternator:

A faulty alternator can be a common cause of intermittent starting issues in your car.

The alternator plays a crucial role in keeping the battery charged and providing power to the electrical components of your vehicle. When the alternator malfunctions, it can disrupt the charging system, leading to inconsistent starting.

Here are a few key points to consider when dealing with a faulty alternator:

1. Dimming or flickering lights: One of the early signs of an alternator problem is noticeable dimming or flickering of the headlights, interior lights, or dashboard lights. This occurs because the alternator is not generating enough power to meet the demands of the electrical system.
2. Battery warning light: If the battery warning light illuminates on your dashboard, it could indicate an issue with the alternator. This light usually resembles a battery icon and serves as an early warning sign that the charging system is not functioning properly.
3. Weak or dead battery: A failing alternator may not provide sufficient charge to the battery, resulting in a weak or dead battery. If you consistently experience difficulty starting your vehicle, especially after it has been sitting idle for some time, it could be due to an inadequate charging system.
4. Strange noises: A malfunctioning alternator can produce unusual noises such as grinding, squealing, or whining. These noises may indicate a problem with the alternator’s bearings, pulley, or belt, which can affect its performance.
5. Electrical issues: A faulty alternator can cause various electrical problems in your car. These can range from intermittent power windows or malfunctioning radio to the complete failure of important systems like the fuel injection or ignition system.

If you suspect a faulty alternator is causing your car’s intermittent starting issues, it is important to have it diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic.

They can perform tests to determine the condition of the alternator and recommend the necessary repairs or replacement.

4. Troublesome Starter:

When your car starts sometimes and sometimes it doesn’t, one of the potential culprits could be a problematic starter.

The starter is responsible for initiating the engine’s combustion process, and if it malfunctions, your vehicle may struggle to start consistently.

Here are a few reasons why a starter can become troublesome:

1. Worn-out starter motor: Over time, the starter motor can wear out due to continuous use. This can result in less effective engagement with the engine, leading to intermittent starting issues.
2. Faulty solenoid: The solenoid is a component within the starter that helps transmit electrical currents. If the solenoid is faulty, it may not consistently provide the necessary electrical power to start the engine.
3. Wiring problems: The wiring connecting the starter to the battery and other components can deteriorate or become loose over time. Damaged or loose wiring can disrupt the flow of electricity, causing inconsistent starting.
4. Ignition switch issues: The ignition switch is responsible for activating the starter motor. If the switch is faulty or worn out, it may not consistently send the signal to start the engine, resulting in intermittent starting problems.

To diagnose a troublesome starter, it is best to consult a professional mechanic who can perform a thorough inspection. They might conduct tests like voltage and current measurements to determine whether the starter is functioning properly.

Possible Causes	Solutions
Worn-out starter motor	Repair or replace the starter motor
Faulty solenoid	Replace or repair the solenoid
Wiring problems	Fix or replace damaged or loose wiring
Ignition switch issues	Repair or replace the faulty ignition switch

Differentiating Between Battery and Alternator Issues:

When your car starts sometimes and sometimes it doesn’t, it can be frustrating and confusing. One possible explanation for this problem is a battery or alternator issue. Let’s take a closer look at how to differentiate between these two culprits.

Battery Issues:

• A dying or dead battery is often the primary cause of starting problems. Here are some signs that point to a battery issue:
• The engine cranks slowly or struggles to start.
• The headlights and interior lights appear dim.
• You hear a clicking sound when you turn the key or push the start button.
• To confirm if the battery is the problem, you can:
• Check the battery voltage using a multimeter. A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts.
• Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections. Clean or tighten them if necessary.

Alternator Issues:

• The alternator is responsible for recharging the battery while the engine is running. If it malfunctions, it can lead to starting problems. Look out for these signs of an alternator issue:
• The battery warning light on your dashboard illuminates.
• The headlights and interior lights become dimmer as you drive.
• Strange electrical issues occur, such as flickering lights or power windows not working properly.
• To determine if the alternator is to blame, you can:
• Conduct a charging system test at a reputable auto repair shop. They will analyze the output of the alternator.
• Check the alternator belt for signs of wear or looseness. A worn-out belt may cause charging problems.

Remember, distinguishing between a battery issue and an alternator problem can be challenging. If you’re unsure, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic who can diagnose the exact cause of your car’s starting troubles.

Battery Issues	Alternator Issues
Slow engine cranking or difficulty starting	Battery warning light illuminated
Dim headlights and interior lights	Dimming lights while driving
Clicking sound when turning the key or pushing the start button	Electrical issues (flickering lights, malfunctioning power windows)
Low battery voltage (around 12.6 volts)	Charging system test indicates alternator malfunction
Corroded or loose battery connections	Worn-out or loose alternator belt

When Your Car Won’t Start but All the Lights Come On?

There are a few possible reasons why your car won’t start but all the lights come on.

• Dead battery. This is the most common reason why a car won’t start. Even if the lights and other electrical components work, the battery may not have enough power to turn the starter motor. If you think your battery may be dead, you can try to jump-start it with another car.
• Faulty ignition switch. The ignition switch is responsible for sending power to the starter motor. If the ignition switch is faulty, it may not be able to supply enough power to the starter motor, even if the battery is fully charged.
• Bad starter. The starter is the motor that turns the engine over when you turn the key in the ignition. If the starter is bad, it won’t be able to turn the engine over, even if the battery and ignition switch are working properly.
• Corroded battery terminals. Corrosion on the battery terminals can prevent the battery from providing a good electrical connection. This can cause the car to not start, even if the battery is fully charged.
• Low fuel level. If the fuel level is too low, the car may not have enough fuel to start.

If your car won’t start but all the lights come on, you can try the following troubleshooting steps:

1. Check the battery voltage with a voltmeter. If the voltage is low, the battery may be dead.
2. Check the ignition switch. If the ignition switch is faulty, it may not be able to supply enough power to the starter motor.
3. Check the starter. If the starter is bad, it won’t be able to turn the engine over.
4. Check the battery terminals for corrosion. If the battery terminals are corroded, clean them with a wire brush and apply a thin coat of dielectric grease.
5. Check the fuel level. If the fuel level is too low, fill up the tank and try starting the car again.

If you’ve checked all of these things and your car still won’t start, you may need to take it to a mechanic to diagnose the problem.

Can a Car Battery Be Dead Even if Lights Work?

Yes, a car battery can be dead even if the lights work. The lights in a car only require a small amount of power, while the starter motor requires a much larger amount of power. If the battery is not able to provide enough power to the starter motor, the car will not start.

Here are some reasons why a car battery might be dead even if the lights work:

• The battery is old. Batteries typically last about 4-5 years, but they can die sooner if they are not properly maintained.
• The battery has been drained. If you leave your car lights on overnight, or if you use a lot of accessories, the battery can be drained.
• The battery is corroded. Corrosion on the battery terminals can prevent the battery from providing a good electrical connection.
• The battery is damaged. If the battery is dropped or hit, it can be damaged and will not be able to hold a charge.

If you think your car battery might be dead, you can try to jump-start it with another car. If the car still won’t start, you may need to replace the battery.

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when jump-starting a car:

• Make sure the cars are not touching.
• Connect the jumper cables in the correct order.
• Do not touch the jumper cables together.
• Be careful not to overload the battery.