Automatic Transmission Car Not Starting

Possible Causes

• Dead battery
• Faulty starter
• Neutral safety switch malfunction
• Transmission control module (TCM) failure
• Wiring problems

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check the battery. Make sure the battery is fully charged and the terminals are clean and tight. If the battery is dead, jump-start the car or replace the battery.
2. Check the starter. The starter is responsible for cranking the engine. If the starter is faulty, it will not be able to turn the engine over. To test the starter, turn the key to the start position and listen for a clicking sound. If you hear a clicking sound, the starter is engaged but not turning the engine over. If you do not hear a clicking sound, the starter is not working.
3. Check the neutral safety switch. The neutral safety switch prevents the starter from engaging if the transmission is not in neutral or park. If the neutral safety switch is malfunctioning, the starter will not be able to crank the engine. To test the neutral safety switch, put the transmission in neutral and try to start the car. If the car starts, the neutral safety switch is working properly.
4. Check the transmission control module (TCM). The TCM is responsible for controlling the transmission. If the TCM is faulty, it will not be able to send the correct signals to the transmission, which will prevent the car from starting. To test the TCM, you will need to take the car to a mechanic.
5. Check the wiring. The wiring harness connects the various components of the starting system. If there is a problem with the wiring harness, the starter or TCM may not be able to receive power. To check the wiring harness, look for any damaged or loose wires. If you find any damaged or loose wires, you will need to repair or replace them.

Conclusion

If your automatic transmission car is not starting, there are a number of possible causes. By following the troubleshooting steps above, you can narrow down the cause of the problem and get your car back on the road.