Engine Won't Turn Over: Why There's No Crank and What to Fix

Driveway Pinpoint Test

Try turning on the interior dome light before attempting to start. If the light is completely dead (not dim — dead), the battery has zero charge. If lights work but nothing happens when you crank, the battery may have enough charge to power lights but not the starter's much higher current demand. Attempt a jump-start — if the engine immediately cranks and starts after jumping, the battery is confirmed dead. Get the free battery test at AutoZone to see if it can hold a charge.

Driveway Pinpoint Test

If jump-starting produces zero cranking (not even a click or attempt), the starter itself has failed. The starter solenoid can also fail independently — you'll hear a single CLUNK and then nothing. Locate the starter motor (typically bolted to the engine near the transmission bell housing) and try the tap test: with the ignition in 'Start' position, have a helper hold the key while you tap the starter body firmly with a hammer. A temporary crank after tapping confirms the starter is failing.

Driveway Pinpoint Test

If the battery and starter both test good but the car still won't crank, the ignition switch is a strong suspect. Check: does turning the key to the 'On' position power the dash lights and accessories normally? If accessories work but 'Start' produces nothing, the switch isn't sending the start signal to the relay. Also check the neutral safety switch (automatic transmissions) — try starting in Neutral instead of Park. If it starts in Neutral, the neutral safety switch is the culprit, not the ignition switch.