What to Do When Your Check Engine Light is On and Your Car Won’t Turn Over

A Check Engine Light (CEL) is an indicator light on the dashboard of most modern vehicles that warns of a malfunction within the vehicle’s powertrain. When this light is illuminated, it typically indicates that there is an issue with one or more components in the engine or emission control systems. If a vehicle’s CEL is on and the car won’t turn over, it may be due to a variety of causes, ranging from a malfunctioning starter motor to a faulty spark plug. In some cases, the CEL may be caused by something as simple as a loose gas cap, while in other cases more serious issues such as water damage or engine failure could be to blame. In order to determine the exact cause of the issue and repair it accordingly, it is recommended that drivers take their car to a certified mechanic for inspection and diagnosis.

Faulty Oxygen Sensor

When a check engine light comes on and the car won’t turn over, it could be due to a faulty oxygen sensor. The oxygen sensor is one of the most important parts of any vehicle’s engine, as it helps to monitor and adjust the air/fuel ratio in order to ensure optimal performance. If this part fails or is not functioning properly, it can cause the check engine light to come on and the car to not start. In order to diagnose this issue, you will need to conduct a thorough inspection of the oxygen sensor system. You should also make sure that all necessary wiring and connections are secure and that there are no loose components.

Faulty Mass Air Flow Sensor

Another common cause of a check engine light coming on and the car not starting is a faulty mass air flow (MAF) sensor. The MAF sensor is responsible for measuring the amount of air entering the engine so that it can properly adjust fuel delivery accordingly. If this part is not working correctly or has become damaged, it can cause the check engine light to come on and prevent your car from turning over. To diagnose this issue, you will need to inspect all related wiring and connections as well as test the MAF sensor itself using an appropriate diagnostic tool.

Loose Gas Cap

A very simple but still common cause for a check engine light coming on when attempting to start a car is a loose gas cap. When fuel enters your vehicle’s tank, it needs to remain sealed with an intact gas cap in order for pressure regulation systems inside the tank to function properly. If these systems fail due to an improperly sealed gas cap, then this can trigger an error code which will illuminate your check engine light and prevent your car from starting. To diagnose this issue, you should first ensure that your gas cap is tightly secured before checking for any other possible causes of failure such as disconnected wiring or faulty components within your fuel tank system.

Faulty Spark Plugs

Lastly, another possible reason why your car won’t turn over when your check engine light comes on could be due to faulty spark plugs. Spark plugs help ignite fuel inside of your vehicle’s cylinders which allows them to produce power during combustion cycles. If these plugs become damaged or worn over time, they can cause misfiring within your vehicle which will trigger an error code leading to your check engine light coming on when you attempt to start up your vehicle. In order to diagnose this issue, you should first inspect all spark plugs for signs of wear or damage before replacing them as necessary with new ones if needed.

Automobile

When you switch on your car, the check engine light usually comes on as a reminder to check your vehicle’s engine. It is an indication that something is wrong with the engine, and you should investigate further. This article will explain what to do if your car won’t turn over after the check engine light comes on.

Diagnostics Checks

The first step in troubleshooting any issue with your vehicle is to run diagnostics tests. This involves checking for faulty parts, wiring problems, and reading error codes from the computer. You can also perform a visual inspection of the vehicle parts to make sure they are in working order. Additionally, it is important to check the battery and all other systems to ensure they are functioning properly.

Check for Faulty Parts

If you find that some of the parts or components in your car are malfunctioning or not working properly, then this could be the reason why your car won’t turn over after the check engine light comes on. It is important to inspect each part individually and replace any faulty ones with new ones as needed.

Check for Wiring Problems

Another possibility for why your car won’t start after the check engine light comes on is due to wiring issues. You should inspect all of the wiring in your vehicle and make sure that everything is connected correctly and securely. If there are any loose wires or frayed cables, then these should be replaced immediately before attempting to start your car again.

Read Error Codes From Computer

In some cases, when a check engine light comes on it can be due to an issue with one of the vehicle’s systems or components. To determine what this issue might be, you can read error codes from your car’s computer system which will show you what could be causing the problem. Once you know what needs fixing, then you can take steps towards getting it fixed so that you can get back out on the road again safely and without worry.

Perform a Visual Inspection of Vehicle Parts

Lastly, it is always recommended that you visually inspect each part of your vehicle before attempting to start it up again once the check engine light has come on. Make sure each part looks as it should and that nothing seems out of place or damaged in any way. If anything does look unusual or damaged then further investigations may need to be carried out before starting up your vehicle again as this could lead to more serious issues down the line if left unchecked for too long.

FAQ & Answers

Q: What should I do if my check engine light comes on and my car won’t turn over?
A: If your check engine light comes on and your car won’t turn over, it is important to take the necessary steps to troubleshoot the issue. Start by checking for faulty parts, reading any error codes from the computer, performing a visual inspection of the vehicle parts, and checking for wiring problems.

Q: What are some common causes of a check engine light coming on?
A: The most common causes of a check engine light coming on are faulty oxygen sensors, mass air flow sensors, loose gas caps, faulty spark plugs, and catalytic converter issues.

Q: How can I read error codes from my car’s computer?
A: To read error codes from your car’s computer you will need to use a device called an OBD-II scan tool. This tool connects to your car’s computer and can provide information about any problems that may be occurring with your vehicle.

Q: How can I tell if any of the parts in my car are faulty?
A: To determine if any of the parts in your car are faulty you will need to perform a visual inspection of the vehicle parts. Look for signs of wear or damage that could indicate an issue with a particular part. You may also want to check for any loose or disconnected wiring that could be causing a problem.

Q: What should I do if I suspect there is an issue with my catalytic converter?
A: If you suspect there is an issue with your catalytic converter you should have it inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. The catalytic converter is an important part of your vehicle’s emissions system and any issues need to be addressed quickly in order to avoid further damage or costly repairs.

The diagnosis of a car that won’t turn over and has the check engine light on can vary greatly. Many times it is caused by a simple issue such as a faulty spark plug, battery, or starter motor. Other times it can be caused by more serious issues such as an engine fault, transmission fault, or electrical problem. It is important to have a professional mechanic diagnose the issue and make any necessary repairs to ensure the safety of the vehicle and its occupants.

Author Profile

Carl Frisch

With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics (at Palo Alto Bicycles) and later as a working partner in my own store.

As the shop owner of Spoke n’ Word Cycles in Socorro, NM, the success of the mission was my responsibility, which I pursued passionately since we opened in 2003 through the spring of 2011. I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.

As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigners, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.

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