When your vehicle first starts struggling to fire up, you'll want to be proactive about addressing the problem. By delaying, the problem could soon escalate to the extent that your engine won't start whatsoever, leaving you stranded and in a difficult situation. Here are seven common reasons that cars won't start.

Bad Starter

The best-known symptom of starter trouble is that all you get is a clicking noise when you turn the key. Another indication of a starter problem is that your dash lights will come on, but your engine won't fire up.

Clogged Fuel Filter

A clogged-up fuel filter can prevent the engine from receiving the fuel it needs to come roaring to life. It's best to get to the shop for fuel filter replacement every 20,000 to 30,000 miles so that this sort of problem doesn't develop.

Bad Fuel Pump

A faulty fuel pump can prevent gas from effectively moving from the tank to the engine. Signs of fuel pump trouble include worsening acceleration, decreasing fuel-efficiency, and sputtering while driving at highway speeds.

Issue with Distributor Cap

If moisture finds its way under the distributor cap, then sufficient voltage may not be sent to the spark plugs.

Dirty Fuel Injectors

Gunked-up fuel injectors may prevent the combustion chamber from taking in the necessary fuel to get the engine fired up. Pouring a fuel additive into your tank can help with cleaning injectors and intake valves. You'll just want to be sure you don't overuse the additive.

Bad Ignition Switch

A healthy ignition switch plays an important role in successfully directing power to the starter solenoid. A sign of ignition switch trouble is flickering dash lights.

Battery/Charging System Issues

A new battery should work reliably for a minimum of three years. But if it dies earlier and not for an obvious reason such as leaving your headlights on, then you could be dealing with a bad alternator.

If you need auto repair, be sure to entrust the work to a reputable mechanic. For auto repair in Rockville, Bethesda, and Silver Spring, MD, contact the experts at Preferred Automotive. Feel free to give Preferred Automotive a call today to make an appointment for any of your vehicle's repair or maintenance needs!