Question: I got in my car to drive to work today and couldn’t get it to start. Why is my Toyota Corolla not starting?
Answer:
The most likely reason your Toyota Corolla won’t start is because of a dead or faulty battery. Other possible causes include a failed alternator or starter, but battery trouble is the most common culprit.
The most common reasons your Toyota Corolla won’t start
Dead or faulty battery
Your car’s battery powers all electrical components in the vehicle, so a dead or faulty battery will prevent it from starting.
- Symptoms: Dim interior lights, a clicking sound when turning the key, or what seems like complete electrical failure.
- Solution: Check the battery terminals for corrosion, which should leave a white and ashy residue, and clean them if necessary. You can also use a tool called a multimeter to check the car’s battery voltage, which should be around 12.6 volts when fully charged. If the battery is old or unable to hold a full charge, you’ll need to replace it.
Failed or failing alternator
A functional alternator charges the battery while the engine is running. A failing alternator won’t charge the battery properly, causing it to slowly drain even if you’re driving.
- Symptoms: Dim headlights, electrical issues, a burning smell, battery warning light on the dashboard, or the car dying after starting.
- Solution: Test your car’s alternator output using a multimeter while the engine is running. If the reading is outside the range of 13.5 and 14.5 volts, you likely need to replace the alternator.
Failed or failing starter
The Toyota Corolla’s starter is responsible for cranking the engine. If it fails, the engine won’t turn over.
- Symptoms: A clicking or whirring noise when turning the key, or no noise at all, is a sign the engine is not cranking.
- Solution: Take the starter out and have it tested. Local auto parts stores will often do this for free because if the starter is defective, you’ll need to replace it.
Bad ignition switch
The ignition switch sends power to the starter. A faulty switch can prevent the car from starting.
- Symptoms: The dashboard lights may not come on, or the car might start intermittently.
- Solution: Check the ignition switch by turning your key and checking if the dashboard lights up. If it doesn’t, that may be a sign that you need to replace the ignition switch.
Fuel system issues
Problems with the fuel system can prevent the engine from getting what it needs to start.
- Symptoms: No fuel pump sound when turning the key, or the car cranks but doesn’t start.
- Solution: Check your Corolla’s fuel pump and fuel filter by listening for the pump when turning the key. If you don’t hear it hum for two or three seconds, check the fuel pump fuse and relay. If they are both working fine, the fuel pump may need to be replaced. If the fuel pump, fuse, and relay are all working, you may have a clogged fuel filter that needs to be replaced.
Faulty spark plugs
Spark plugs ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine to supply power to the car. Worn or faulty spark plugs can prevent the engine from starting.
- Symptoms: The engine cranks but doesn’t start or misfires.
- Solution: Inspect the spark plugs for wear and replace them if they are old or damaged. Also ensure the spark plug wires are in good condition.
Sarah Gray is an insurance writer with nearly a decade of experience in publishing and writing. Sarah specializes in writing articles that educate car owners and buyers on the full scope of car ownership—from shopping for and buying a new car to scrapping one that’s breathed its last and everything in between. Sarah has authored over 1,500 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from first-time buyer programs to how to get a salvage title for a totaled car. Prior to joining Jerry, Sarah was a full-time professor of English literature and composition with multiple academic writing publications.
Everett Cook is an award-winning journalist and editor with more than 10 years of experience across a variety of industries. In editing for Jerry, Everett’s mission is to help readers have a better understanding of the costs of owning or leasing a car and to better understand their vehicle in terms of insurance and repairs. Prior to joining Jerry, Everett was an editor for Axios. His previous work has been featured in The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The San Francisco Chronicle, The Atlantic, Atlantic Re:think, The Boston Globe, USA Today, and others. He’s also been a freelance writer and editor with experience in SEO, audience building, and long-term content roadmaps. Everett is a proud graduate of the University of Michigan.
