What the car is doing tells you a lot
- Nothing at all, no lights: usually a dead battery or a bad battery connection.
- A single click, or rapid clicking: often a weak battery, a corroded cable, or a failing starter.
- Cranks normally but won't fire: usually fuel, spark, or a sensor problem.
- Starts with a jump, then dies again later: often the alternator isn't charging.
- Dash lights work but the key or push-button does nothing: could be the ignition switch, a security system or the shifter not fully in Park.
Quick things you can check first
- Make sure the shifter is fully in Park, or press the clutch on a manual.
- Try your spare key fob; a dead fob battery can stop push-button starts.
- Look at the battery terminals for white or green corrosion or a loose clamp.
- Turn the headlights on: very dim or no lights points to the battery.
- Don't keep cranking for long stretches. It can overheat the starter and drain the battery further.
Why call a mobile mechanic
A car that won't start is the hardest one to get to a shop. We come to it, so you skip the tow. We test the battery, cables, starter and charging system, find what actually failed, and give you the price before any repair.
Service area
We're based in Douglasville and come to Douglasville, Winston, Lithia Springs, Austell, Clarkdale, Powder Springs, Hiram, Villa Rica, Mableton, Dallas, Fairburn, Smyrna, Temple, Palmetto, Marietta and west Atlanta. See the service area.
Questions
How much does it cost to find out why my car won't start?
A no-start diagnosis is $150, plus the $45 service call. The diagnosis fee is credited toward the repair if it is done the same visit.
Can you come to me if my car won't start at work?
Yes. We come to homes, workplaces and other safe parking spots around Douglasville.
Is it the battery or the alternator?
If the car won't start after sitting but runs once jumped, suspect the battery. If it starts with a jump and dies again while driving, suspect the alternator. A charging test confirms it.
Do I need a tow?
Often not. Many no-start problems can be found and fixed where the car is parked.
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Updated October 2026