A vehicle that will not start is one of the most common reasons people call Under the Bus Auto, and it is one of the best fits for a mobile mechanic. A car that will not start cannot be driven to a shop. Instead of paying for a tow, call us and we will come to the vehicle, find out why it will not start, and in most cases fix it where it sits, anywhere in Canon City and Fremont County.
Jump Start or Real Fix?
A jump start gets you moving, but it does not tell you why the battery went dead. If the battery is worn out, the alternator is not charging, or something is draining power while the vehicle is parked, the problem will come back, usually at a worse time. When we jump-start a vehicle, we also test the battery and charging system so you know whether you need a new battery, an alternator or nothing at all.
Common Causes of a No-Start
Weak or Failed Battery
Most batteries last three to five years. Heat shortens battery life and cold exposes the weakness, which is why the first cold mornings of the season bring the most dead-battery calls. We load test the battery and replace it on site when needed.
Corroded or Loose Battery Cables
Corrosion at the terminals or a loose clamp can stop current from reaching the starter even when the battery is fine. Cleaning or replacing terminals and cables is a quick repair.
Failed Alternator
If the alternator is not charging, the vehicle runs on battery power until the battery is drained. Dimming lights, a battery warning light and repeated dead batteries point to the charging system.
Starter Motor or Solenoid
A single click or no sound at all when you turn the key, with lights and accessories still working, often means a starter problem.
Fuel, Ignition and Security Problems
An engine that cranks but will not start may have a fuel pump, ignition, sensor or anti-theft issue. We diagnose these with a scan tool and hands-on testing. See check engine light diagnostics.
Parasitic Drain
A battery that keeps going dead overnight may be drained by a module, light or accessory that stays on. We test for draws and track down the circuit responsible.
What to Tell Us When You Call
- What happens when you turn the key or press the start button: nothing, a click, slow cranking or normal cranking with no start.
- Whether the dash lights and headlights come on.
- How old the battery is, if you know.
- Where the vehicle is parked and whether we can reach the front of it.
Prevent the Next Dead Battery
A battery test before winter is the simplest way to avoid a cold-morning no-start. It is part of our winter vehicle maintenance check and our fleet winterization service. Diesel trucks with dual batteries need both tested, since one weak battery drags down the other. See diesel and work truck maintenance.
Hours
We work Monday through Saturday, 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. If your vehicle will not start during those hours, call and we will tell you how soon we can be there.
Get a No-Start Repair in Canon City
Call (719) 964-0522 or send us a message to book service. We work Monday through Saturday, 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Tell us the year, make and model, what the vehicle is doing, and where it is parked, and we will confirm what we can handle on site.
No-Start and Battery Service Throughout Fremont County
Under the Bus Auto is based in Canon City and covers Fremont County and the surrounding area. Nearby service areas include Florence, Penrose, Lincoln Park, Brookside, Williamsburg, Rockvale, Coal Creek, the Royal Gorge area, Wetmore. See the full list on our service areas page.