How do you start a van that wont start?
Few things are as frustrating as getting into your van, turning the key, and realizing it won’t start. Whether you’re heading to work, picking up the kids, or embarking on a road trip, a van that refuses to start can throw a wrench in your plans. At Kevin’s Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we’ve seen it all. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you troubleshoot and potentially get your van running again.
Step 1: Check the Battery
The most common reason a van won’t start is a dead or weak battery. Here’s how to check:
- Turn on the headlights or interior lights. If they’re dim or don’t turn on, your battery may be the culprit.
- Listen for a clicking sound when you turn the key. This often indicates a weak battery.
- If you have jumper cables and access to another vehicle, try jump-starting your van. Connect the cables properly and let the other vehicle run for a few minutes before attempting to start your van.
Step 2: Inspect the Starter and Ignition
If the battery seems fine but the van still won’t start, the issue could be with the starter or ignition system. Here’s what to do:
- Listen for a single click or no sound at all when turning the key. This could indicate a faulty starter.
- Check the ignition switch by ensuring the dashboard lights come on when you turn the key to the “on” position.
- If you suspect the starter, you may need professional assistance to repair or replace it.
Step 3: Ensure There’s Fuel
It might sound obvious, but sometimes the simplest issues are overlooked. Make sure your van has enough fuel:
- Check the fuel gauge to confirm there’s gas in the tank.
- If the gauge is broken or inaccurate, add a small amount of fuel to rule out an empty tank as the problem.
Step 4: Examine the Fuel System
If there’s fuel in the tank but the van still won’t start, the problem could lie in the fuel system:
- Listen for a humming sound from the fuel pump when you turn the key to the “on” position. If you don’t hear it, the fuel pump may be faulty.
- Check the fuel filter for clogs, as a blocked filter can prevent fuel from reaching the engine.
Step 5: Check for Electrical Issues
Modern vehicles rely heavily on electrical systems, and a fault here can prevent your van from starting:
- Inspect the fuses for any that are blown. Replace them if necessary.
- Look for loose or corroded connections in the battery terminals and wiring.
- If your van has a security system, ensure it’s not preventing the engine from starting.
Step 6: Call a Professional
If you’ve tried all the above steps and your van still won’t start, it’s time to call in the experts. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing all types of vehicle issues. Whether it’s a complex electrical problem or a mechanical failure, our team is here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional assistance to get your van back on the road.
Remember, regular maintenance can prevent many of these issues from occurring in the first place. Schedule a check-up with us today to keep your van running smoothly!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you start a dead van?
HOW TO JUMP START A VAN
- Connect one end of the red (positive) jump lead to the positive (+) terminal on the dead battery.
- Connect the other end of the red jump lead to the positive terminal on the support battery.
- Connect one end of the black (negative) jump lead to the negative (-) terminal on the support battery.
How do I know if it's my battery or alternator?
Generally speaking, if the alternator is faulty, you will see a red battery shaped symbol on your dashboard when the engine is running. When you first turn on the ignition, you WILL see this symbol, but it should go out as soon as the engine starts. Any competent garage should give you a check. We do them free.
How to start a van that won't start?
Try replacing the battery. If battery replacement isn't practical, try holding the fob up against the start button and pressing the start button at the same time. If there is no start button on your model, try holding the fob very close to the ignition switch whilst you turn the key.
What does it mean when your car wont start but has power?
Why won't my car start but I have power? If you attempt to start up your car but the engine won't turn over and the dashboard lights up, then you most likely have an issue with your battery. You could have a damaged or corroded battery terminal, which is stopping the engine from starting up when you fully turn the key.
Why won't my car start but I have power?
A low battery is the most frequent cause of a car having power but not turning over. Other causes include a bad starter, a bad alternator, or electrical issues. If you hear clicking, whirring, or nothing at all when trying to start your car, you may have a bad starter, malfunctioning alternator, or low battery.
When your car won't start but all the lights come on?
If your headlights and power are on but your engine didn't turn over, that's an indicator that your standard 12-volt car battery might be the culprit. If your radio won't turn on or if your check-engine light flashes but doesn't stay on, that could also mean your battery is dead.
Why is my van not starting but the battery is good?
A discharged or defective battery would be the most likely cause. Other causes would be dirty battery terminals or bad ground connection either at the battery at the frame or at the engine. Just because a voltmeter tells you that the battery is reading 12.8 to 13.2 volts does not mean it's a good battery.
When I turn the key, nothing happens. No click.?
No click at all usually indicates a problem with the neutral safety switch, or the ignition switch. If it won't start when you manually crank it with the key on, it's very possible the ignition switch isn't supplying any power.
What is the first thing to check when a car won't start?
Turn the headlights on. If the lights go out or very dim, and the battery and starter motor connections are fine, pretty sure it's the battery. If the starter motor spins the engine, but it won't fire, check if there's a spark at a spark plug when cranking.
How do I know if it's the battery or the starter?
If it doesn't start, your starter may be the problem, since no matter how charged the battery is, your car won't start without a working starter. If it does start, but dies when unhooking the jumper cables, your alternator likely isn't providing the current your vehicle needs to keep running.
