Car won't start? Before you call a recovery truck, work through this 8-step mobile mechanic checklist. Most no-start faults fall into one of these eight buckets.
1 — Check the dashboard
Lights bright? Dim? Nothing at all? Bright = probably not the battery. Dim = battery or alternator. Nothing = battery flat, terminal corrosion or main fuse.
2 — Listen to the cranking
Strong fast crank but no start = fuel or immobiliser. Slow weak crank = battery or starter. Single click = starter solenoid or battery. No click at all = ignition switch, starter relay or battery.
3 — Check the immobiliser light
Flashing immobiliser symbol after you turn the key = your key isn't being recognised. Often fixed by a fresh key fob battery or transponder reprogramming.
4 — Smell for fuel
Strong fuel smell after cranking = flooded engine. Pump pedal flat to the floor and crank for 5 seconds to clear it.
5 — Check fuel level
Sounds obvious but fuel gauge faults are very common — especially on older diesels. Try adding 5 litres if you're near empty.
6 — Try the spare key
If you have a spare, try it. If the spare starts the car, your main key transponder has failed.
7 — Listen for the fuel pump
Turn the key to position II (ignition on, not crank). You should hear a 2-second hum from the rear of the car. No hum = fuel pump or relay failure.
8 — Call a mobile mechanic
If steps 1–7 don't identify it, a 30-minute mobile diagnostic at your driveway will. We carry batteries, starters, alternators and immobiliser kit on the van.