255 W. Pershing Road Decatur, IL 62526
If your car is refusing to start in the driveway, you will want to know what's wrong and what it will take to get it going again. Although a car that won't start can be alarming, there may be a quick solution depending on the problem. You can check for a few different symptoms to try to figure out what the underlying problem may be and how to fix it. If you can't, or if you feel more comfortable having a technician take a look at your car instead, don't hesitate to contact the experts at our service department.
Whether the problem is due to aging or an acute problem such as leaving all the car lights on by accident, a dead battery is a common cause for a car not starting. The battery should last about 60,000 miles and up to five years. However, excess moisture or extreme temperatures can quickly drain your battery's resources. One way to determine if your battery is the problem is to try giving the car a jump start in the driveway. If that starts the car, the battery is the likely culprit.
Running out of gasoline is another common problem. Sometimes, you may forget to add fuel before the tank reaches the reserve level. The fuel gauge in the gas tank may stop working, which also increases the likelihood of your car running out of gas. If the fuel gauge breaks, you will need to visit a technician for service.
The starter in your car is a small electric part that starts the motor. The motor can wear out or become damaged, which in turn means your car may not start. The starter also has a few other components that can break and prevent the unit from working, including the gearing and the teeth.
Your car has another small but important part called the ignition. The ignition can be located in a standard key or key fob. When you either turn the key or press a button, the ignition usually signals the engine to start running. When the key fob's internal chip breaks or the ignition is damaged, the vehicle won't start.
The engine filter is one of two filters in your vehicle. The engine filter is a protective device that blocks debris and dust from getting into the engine and the mechanical system of your car. The engine filter should be cleaned or changed around 20,000 to 30,000 miles.
To make an appointment for a car that doesn't start, contact our dealership today.
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Hybrid vehicle technology is now a familiar part of the automotive landscape in the United States. But 25 years ago, when the Toyota Prius first launched, it was something entirely new—and uncertain. The Prius became the car that introduced many Americans to a more efficient, modern way to drive. Now, the 2026 Prius is set to honor that legacy with a bold new chapter.