What are the main reasons a car won't start?

Answer 1

Here is your list to start with…

(each of these 4 categories has a large list of contributing factors)

1.Battery and connections.

2.Getting spark to all cylinders

3.Plenty of fuel

4.Engine compression

Be organized when you start troubleshooting. Focus on one problem area until it can be fixed or eliminated. FINALIZE it before you go on to the next. At least you won't be second-guessing yourself.

More Information:

I have always found the main reason any implement (boats, cars, lawnmowers, etc. won't start is electrical connections. In use, electical wires and battery terminals gather dust and corrosion and this interferes with the electrical charge strength. The first thing to check is your battery terminal. Always remove the cable, clean the terminal and cable connector. Coating the terminal with grease or some sort of corrosion resistant application works well. Be careful you don't ground your socket or wrench to the car body when you remove the cable. Reinstall the connection and try to start it. Usually if you have no starting sound at all, it is the connection. A dead battery will grind or click slowly.