Your MINI is a sporty and fun vehicle, designed to be reliable and with some of the best engineering on the road today. When the starter does not work, it can be frustrating to the car owner. To help avoid this issue and other problems with your car, it is important for all car owners to stick with a routine maintenance schedule. MINI owners should also recognize some of the possible causes of their model failing to start so they can take the proper steps to prevent these issues from happening.
The Fuel Tank is Empty
This is a simple solution to why your MINI may not start. If the tank is empty, there is no fuel to ignite in the engine. It can be hard to impossible for your engine to run on just fumes. If this happened because the fuel gauge is malfunctioning, then it is important to talk to a mechanic right away to get the gauge replaced. Damage can occur if you constantly run it with low fuel, including clogged filters and more.
The Battery Died
Sometimes your MINI will not start because the battery dies. Batteries will charge while you keep the car actively engaged during driving. Then the alternator will generate power that will keep the battery charged, even when you keep the car parked at night.
If the alternator stops doing its job, it is impossible for the battery to hold a charge and work. Eventually, the battery will drain and stop holding a charge, making the car unusable. If you are worried about your battery not working properly, take your MINI to a licensed mechanic to see whether the alternator is the problem or if you need a new battery altogether.
A Failing Starter
When a car owner tries to start their car and they hear a grinding noise or clicking sound, then the issue may be the starter. When the starter fails or breaks, it is something a mechanic can fix, but it may be expensive. Failing starters on a MINI are common, so the car owner must consider routine maintenance to make sure the starter is checked out routinely to avoid issues with this part.
A Failing Ignition
One reason that your car is not working is that the ignition switch has failed. This is often accompanied by power loss and stalling. The car then will stall while you are driving or when you want to get it to start. These are big red flags that something is wrong with your MINI and you need to bring it in for an inspection and diagnostic testing. If you have ignored some of the other signs leading up to the car not starting and have not taken your MINI to a qualified mechanic, you could be left stranded if the ignition module fails completely. Don’t wait. Call Turning Wrenches today to speak to a technician.
Fixing Problems with Your MINI Cooper
As soon as you notice there are issues with your MINI starting, it is important to take it in for an inspection with a licensed mechanic. This will make it easier to 
find the problem and get it fixed before it turns into something much bigger. The sooner you get the repairs done, the safer it is for the whole vehicle and your peace of mind.
MIN owners should also consider routine maintenance on their model as well. This will ensure that any potential problems are found before they cause your car’s condition to deteriorate. Your owner’s manual should give recommendations on when to get each component on the vehicle replaced or repaired to make this easier. You can also talk with your mechanic to set up a good repair and maintenance schedule to keep your MINI working well.
When your MINI fails to start, it is important you bring it to our professional mechanics to have it checked out. At Turning Wrenches in Louisville, KY, we are here to repair your car and get you back on the road with confidence in your MINI. Contact us today to get your appointment scheduled. We look forward to earning your repeat business for service and maintenance.