Why Does My Car Hesitate to Start?

Whether you drive a new or used vehicle, a car hesitating to start can be a nerve-wracking experience. When you turn the key in the ignition, you likely feel your engine struggling, which can be a sign of any number of potential problems. To ensure the continued performance and reliability of your vehicle on the roads of Mississauga and Richmond Hill, the Pfaff Automotive Partners service centre answers below the all-important question: “Why does my car hesitate to start?”

Possible Causes of a Car Hesitating to Start

There are a variety of issues that can lead to a vehicle struggling upon startup, any of which require professional attention; for this reason, be sure to schedule a service appointment at the first sign of a car hesitating to start. So, why does your car hesitate to start? Here are some of the more common reasons:

• Failing Starter – When you turn the key, the starter motor engages and starts cranking the engine to start it up. If you have to turn the key several times or you hear a clicking sound when doing so, the reason your car hesitates to start may be a failing starter motor.
• Weak Battery – Your car battery supplies the energy needed to start the engine. When a battery has a weak charge or is otherwise failing, the engine will struggle to turn over when you try to start it. Other signs of a weak battery include dimming lights, a sulfurous smell, and engine backfires.
• Bad Alternator – The alternator delivers energy to your vehicle’s electrical systems, and part of its job is to keep the engine engaged. With a bad alternator, you will often have no trouble starting the car, but the engine will hesitate to keep running. If your engine dies after startup, you smell a burning odour, or you hear whining or grinding from the engine, a failing alternator may be to blame.
• Fuel Pump Issues – The fuel pump carries gas from the tank to the engine. If it starts to fail due to clogs or other problems, the engine cannot get the fuel it needs to start and stay running. Other symptoms include decreased fuel economy, an overheated engine, and an illuminated Check Engine light.

Schedule a Service Appointment Near Thornhill

Now that you know why your car hesitates to start, we invite you to schedule an appointment at our Vaughan service centre. Contact us or reserve a time online. When your car hesitates to start, trust our team to get to the bottom of the issue so you can get back on the road with a minimum of stress and downtime.