Car won't start? Here's what to do
Five quick checks, then get help. If you're near Goodwood, Parow or N1 City, we can usually have you sorted within the hour during opening times.
10-second check
Is it my battery?
Tap three answers and we'll tell you what's most likely wrong.
Check the lights
Turn the key to on. If the dash lights are dim or don't come on, it's almost certainly the battery or its connection.
Listen when you start
Rapid clicking or a slow, labouring crank points to a flat or weak battery. A single click with bright lights can be the starter motor.
Check the terminals
If it's safe, look for loose or white, crusty terminals. A loose clamp is a common and cheap fix.
Jump start safely
Red to the flat battery's positive, red to the good battery's positive, black to the good battery's negative, and black to bare metal on the dead car, away from the battery. Start the good car first.
Drive in for a free test
After a jump, drive straight to us without switching off. We'll test the battery and alternator so you know what failed.
Car won't start right now?
WhatsApp us your vehicle and where you are. If we're open, we'll tell you straight away whether to drive in, jump-start and come over, or whether we should come to you. Messages before 08:00 are first in the queue when we open.
Common questions
Why won't my car start in the morning?
Cold mornings demand more from a battery, so a weak battery often fails first thing in the day. Lights left on, a faulty alternator or a parasitic draw can also flatten it overnight.
Is it the battery or the alternator?
If the car starts after a jump but dies again soon, or the battery light is on while driving, suspect the alternator. If it starts and stays running but won't start again next morning, suspect the battery. Our free test checks both.
What time do you open?
We open at 08:00 Monday to Friday and 10:00 on Saturday. WhatsApp us before then and you'll be first in the queue.