Introduction
Let's face it, we've all been there, you've got places to be, you get in your Ford Fiesta, turn the key, and … drum roll please … nothing! Your Fiesta won't start up! This an extremely irritating circumstance, but don't fret, we've got you covered. There are lots and lots of explanations why your Ford Fiesta won't start, and in this guide, to save you time we'll cover the most common causes along with provide you with useful solutions to get your vehicle back on the road in no time!
Understanding the Problem
Before we get stuck into the causes and repair options it's essential to first comprehend the issue. When you realize to yourself “My Ford Fiesta won't start”, this could be because of different things being wrong with your car. Possibly the engine is not turning over at all, possibly it is cranking partially however then not starting, or possibly it's making a clicking sound when you try to start the engine, but in the end nothing happens. Each of these circumstances can indicate various problems with your car.
Common Reasons Why Your Ford Fiesta Won't Start
There are many reasons a Fiesta fails to start. These concerns usually consist of a weak or dead vehicle battery, a broken alternator, starter motor failures, fuel system problems, along with electrical or circuitry issues. Every one of these issues can manifest as different symptoms and require different solutions to identify and resolve, so we can get your car back on the road as soon as possible.
Symptoms of Ford Fiesta That Won't Start
Having the ability to recognize and diagnose these symptoms, will assist you in discovering the root cause of the problem. For example, when you turn the key in the ignition, and you hear a clicking sound however your vehicle still can't start, it can mean that there is a problem with the fuel or ignition system.
Analysis of The Reasons Why Your Ford Fiesta Won't Start
The initial step to figuring out a practical solution to the issue is knowing the root cause of that problem, so let's look into the most common reasons your Fiesta won't start.
Ford Fiesta Battery Issues
In most cases, the most common reason why your Ford Fiesta will not start is, in many cases due to the battery, it's either dead or weak, and you need to either charge up your car's battery or change it. The vehicle's battery stores the power needed to start the engine, and power all the electrical parts in your Ford Fiesta. Symptoms of a weak or dead battery issue in a Fiesta, are things like the car being sluggish to crank the engine, weak or dim headlights, or a lit-up battery caution light on your car's dashboard.
Ford Fiesta Alternator Problems
The alternator is tasked with charging the battery from the engine while the car is running. A faulty alternator can certainly stop your Ford Fiesta from starting as it won't be able to charge the battery, from the engine, so it will deplete fairly quickly until it's completely drained and you don't realize it until you get in your Fiesta and it won't start. Signs that the alternator may be faulty can be a lit-up battery or alternator warning light on the dashboard, poorly lit headlights when the engine is idling, and also a whining or grinding sound from the engine while it's running.
Ford Fiesta Starter Motor Failures
The starter motor handles turning the engine over (cranking) when you start your Ford. If the starter motor is defective in some manner then the engine may not crank, and your Fiesta won't start. You can tell if your starter motor has a problem or not usually by listening, if you hear a clicking noise when you turn your key or a grinding sound during the startup, or your vehicle starts up but only intermittently, then the starter motor may very well be the problem.
Ford Fiesta Fuel System Complications
We’re not talking about when you simply run out of gas here, but your car’s fuel system itself having complications. Your Ford Fiesta uses a combustion engine, and, therefore, to start and run, it requires a combination of both fuel and air. If your Fiesta problems are because of a faulty fuel system, this can sometimes be a clogged fuel filter or a failing fuel pump relay, which could suggest the engine might not be getting the fuel it requires to get the car up and running.
Ford Fiesta Electrical System or Wiring Problems
Modern Ford Fiestas rely greatly on electronics, which can mean there are lots of things that can potentially fail. Even in an older model, you can still have regular problems such as blown fuses, spark plug issues, a faulty ignition switch, or a broken sensor, and more. These can be a few of the numerous electrical examples of how failing electrical components can be the reason your car can't get started. Signs of a circuitry or electrical issue can vary vastly however can typically include the engine not cranking, or your Fiesta can start but only intermittently or various alert lights come on the car’s dash. To properly identify and fix these kinds of issues, you will require the skills of a knowledgeable car mechanic in your area or online.
Solutions & Repair Tips
As soon as you have diagnosed what the reason for your car troubles are. The next logical step is of course to attempt to repair it. Here are some tips for the typical problems we've covered up until now.
How to Troubleshoot and Fix Battery Issues in a Ford Fiesta
If you think it's possible a battery problem is the culprit as to why your Fiesta has difficulty starting up, then the first thing you need to do is check around the battery and check the battery terminals. You want them to be clean, not corroded, and firmly connected. If you find that the terminals are corroded you can try to clean them up with a mix of baking soda and water. You will need to replace the battery if it's old or weak, otherwise, even if you charge it up enough to start the vehicle, it will probably die once again in the not so distant future. You can use a multimeter as a way to test the life of the battery to find out if it’s worth saving or if it needs replacing. You can ask a reliable car mechanic online or in your area to help you with this.
How to Diagnose Alternator Problems in a Ford Fiesta
If you’re thinking that the alternator is the cause of your car starting troubles, you can test it to see for yourself. If you can get the vehicle started temporarily (you may need to jump-start the car for that), but when it’s going, let the vehicle run, and while the engine is running, disconnect the positive terminal of the battery. If you notice your Ford Fiesta is dying right away, then it's likely because of a problem with your car's alternator. You should be aware however that this method can be dangerous, and may harm the sensitive electronic components in your Ford Fiesta, so it's always best to consult with a professional car mechanic in your area or online, prior to ever trying this.
How to Identify Starter Motor Failures in a Ford Fiesta
If you hear the clicking sound when you try and start the car by turning the key, but the engine doesn't crank, then its likely an issue with your starter motor. In these cases, the solution is to have the starter motor changed for a new one by a professional mechanic.
How to Solve Fuel System Complications in a Ford Fiesta
If you think the issue to be because of a fuel system problem, try and listen for the fuel pump when you turn the key to the “on” position, before starting the vehicle. You should hear a humming sound for a couple of seconds. If you are not able to hear this noise, then it may be there is an issue with the fuel pump. If you discover your Ford is hard to start, it stalls, or it has bad acceleration, it could be a result of a clogged fuel filter. Both of these will likely need a reliable car mechanic in order to correctly fix.
How to Fix Electrical or Wiring Issues in a Ford Fiesta
If you suspect it's a wiring or electrical system problem, first examine the fuses related to the ignition system, and change any that have actually blown. If your Ford starts after this, then it was an effective, simple and cheap repair! However, if the car doesn't start, even intermittently it might be an issue with the ignition switch itself. It may be a faulty sensor if numerous warning lights are visible on the dash. These issues can be extremely complicated and a professional car mechanic is likely needed to diagnose and have it properly repaired.
Preventive Steps
As my dad always said “Prevention is better than cure”, so here are some preventative measures to make sure you prevent any Ford Fiesta starting difficulties ever again!
Regular Upkeep of Your Ford Fiesta:
Regular maintenance of your Ford Fiesta is key to prevent future problems. This includes things like regular oil changes, checking your car battery, cleaning the terminals, changing the fuel filter as suggested/required, and of course having your car examined by a reliable car mechanic regularly. You can speak with a mechanic locally or online if you find yourself uncertain or needing further clarity about the regular upkeep tasks needed for your specific vehicle.
Drive Your Ford Fiesta Regularly:
If you happen to leave your Ford Fiesta off for extended periods of time without driving it, the battery may waste out of charge as it's not being charged up by the engine being in use. Try to drive your Fiesta frequently to keep the battery full of juice. Take it for a fast spin to make sure there is still charge in the battery if you remember you have not driven your Ford for a while. Worth noting: letting the battery completely drain, is also damaging to the longevity of the battery, try not to do this.
Take Notice Of Warning Signs:
If you observe anything weird like unusual noises, changes in driving and performance, or warning lights are now visible on your Ford Fiestas dashboard, don’t just disregard them and get on with your day. These are usually early indications of an issue and it’s best to be resolved ASAP before they end up being larger problems later. Chat with a car mechanic in your area or online about these warning lights and get advice on if they need to be attended to.
When to Ask a Ford Mechanic Online
If you want to save time, would like an expert Ford mechanic on hand to guide and to advise you, or you've tried to resolve it for yourself, but in spite of your best efforts your Ford Fiesta won't start, then talking with a Ford mechanic online can be a fantastic option. It certainly beats googling things like “Ford wont start but lights come on no clicking noise” all day and still getting no where.
Advantages of an Online Ford Mechanic
Online mechanic services, like ours in the bottom right of this page, offer a number of advantages. You can get skilled Ford mechanic suggestions 24×7 and without leaving your house, which is particularly beneficial if your vehicle will not start and is stuck in the driveway. You can also save money as online mechanic consultations are more affordable than a physical visit to a local mechanic near you. Plus, you can get answers rapidly, which is great if you're in a rush, need a 2nd opinion, or you just prefer having a professional Ford mechanic on hand.
How Solutions Like MechanicAnswer.com Can Help You
MechanicAnswer.com connects you with certified specialist mechanics who can provide instant assistance, guidance and advice with all issues and all Ford models. So it doesn't matter if your Ford F-350 won't start or it's your Fiesta that you're having issues with, we've got the mechanics online that with a little bit of information over a chat box, can solve anything for you.
You're able to explain the issues you are having with your car, ask Ford mechanics unlimited questions, and even upload pictures and videos so you can actually show the mechanic what you mean. You can speak to them by means of online chat or by phone call, whichever you prefer. The Ford mechanic will help you detect the issue, advise you on the best course of action for your specific circumstance and even assist you through basic maintenance and repair work step by step.
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Conclusion
To summarize, when your Ford Fiesta is unable to start, it can be a total bummer and a massive hassle. However, having a firm grasp of what may be triggering the issues, being able to troubleshoot them, and knowing what actions are required in each case, and where to get help if needed, will be a huge help. Keep in mind that regular maintenance is crucial for avoiding the vast majority of car issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What should I do if my Ford Fiesta can’t start?
First off, don't panic. Try to identify any signs that could indicate an issue, such as unusual sounds, warning lights on the dash, or changes in performance. The cause of the problem is likely one of the most common causes gone over in this guide. If you can't find the issue yourself, you will require the aid of a Ford mechanic locally or online.
How to tell if my Ford Fiesta won't start because of the battery?
Indications of a battery issue in a Fiesta consist of the engine being slow to crank, dim headlights, and lit battery warning lights on the dash. You can also check the battery terminals to see if they are clean, not corroded, and securely connected. It may be best to simply swap it out for a new one if the battery is old or weak.
How can I prevent my Ford Fiesta not starting issues?
In order to make certain this inconvenience never occurs again, regular upkeep is essential. This includes things like oil changes, examining the battery and cleaning its terminals, changing the fuel filter as recommended/required, and getting your Ford Fiesta inspected by a mechanic often. It's also a fantastic idea to drive the vehicle regularly so the battery remains charged.
Can I ask a mechanic online if my Ford Fiesta will not start?
Yes, you can. An online mechanic service like ours can provide instantaneous professional Ford mechanic help and guidance, without you needing to leave your house. If your Ford Fiesta can't start and is stuck in the driveway, this is especially helpful.
How can services like MechanicAnswer.com help if my Ford Fiesta won't start?
We link you with accredited professional Ford mechanics who can supply recommendations on your specific scenario. You can tell them about your car issues, ask unlimited questions, and even upload images and videos so you can correctly demonstrate the problem and describe it fully. The mechanic will be able to help, troubleshoot, diagnose the problem, recommend the best course of action and guide you along the way.
