As soon as you first notice that your vehicle is struggling to fire up, it's important to identify the root cause quickly. Ignoring the issue can lead to bigger problems and leave you stranded when you least expect it. At ATL Total Car Care, our local mechanics are highly experienced with identifying and addressing issues that cause hard-starts and no-starts. Here are four common reasons your vehicle might be having trouble starting. Weak/Dead Battery A weak or dead battery is one of the most common reasons vehicles experience hard-start or no-start issues. Batteries lose strength over time, especially in extreme weather conditions. If your engine cranks slowly, your lights are dim, or you hear a clicking sound when you turn the key, your battery may be the culprit. Sometimes the issue lies with corroded terminals or loose connections rather than the battery itself, so a visual inspection and battery test can help diagnose the problem. Fuel Delivery Issues For an engine to start, it needs the right amount of fuel at the right time. If there’s a problem with the fuel pump, fuel filter, or fuel injectors, your engine might crank but not start. A failing fuel pump won’t deliver enough pressure, a clogged filter can restrict flow, and dirty injectors may prevent proper combustion. If the vehicle struggles during start-up and runs rough afterward, it could be a sign of fuel system trouble. Bad Ignition Switch The ignition switch sends power from the battery to the vehicle's electrical systems and the starter. When the ignition switch fails, your vehicle may not respond at all when you turn the key. You might notice flickering dashboard lights or the radio cutting out. These signs suggest that the ignition switch isn’t making proper electrical contact. Replacing a faulty ignition switch is essential to get your vehicle starting normally again. Faulty Starter Motor The starter motor is responsible for turning over the engine when you start the vehicle. If the starter is failing, you may hear a single click or no sound at all when trying to start the engine. Over time, internal components of the starter wear out, especially if the vehicle has high mileage. A faulty starter needs to be replaced promptly to restore reliable operation. Auto Repair in Murfreesboro, TN When you need auto repair in Murfreesboro, TN and the surrounding area, contact ATL Total Car Care at  615-813-9970  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

A vehicle’s cooling system is responsible for regulating engine temperature and preventing overheating. When this system malfunctions, it can lead to serious engine damage and expensive repairs. Recognizing common cooling system problems can help you address issues before they become severe. At ATL Total Car Care, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Murfreesboro area. Here are five common cooling system problems. Low Coolant Levels Coolant is essential for maintaining the proper operating temperature of your engine. If coolant levels drop too low, the engine may overheat, potentially causing major damage. Low coolant can be caused by leaks in the radiator, hoses, water pump, or head gasket. If you frequently need to add coolant, it’s important to check for leaks and address them promptly. Ignoring this issue can result in engine overheating and costly repairs. Radiator Leaks and Clogs The radiator plays a crucial role in dissipating heat from the coolant before it recirculates through the engine. Over time, radiators can develop leaks due to corrosion and cracks. A leaking radiator reduces the efficiency of the cooling system and can cause coolant loss. Additionally, radiators can become clogged, restricting coolant flow and leading to overheating. Regular radiator maintenance, including flushing the system and checking for leaks, can help prevent these issues. Malfunctioning Thermostat The thermostat controls the flow of coolant between the engine and the radiator. If the thermostat becomes stuck in the closed position, it prevents coolant from circulating, causing the engine to overheat. Conversely, if it sticks in the open position, the engine may run too cold. A faulty thermostat should be replaced at the first sign of trouble. Water Pump Failure The water pump is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the engine and radiator. If the pump fails, coolant flow is disrupted, leading to overheating. Water pump failure is often caused by worn-out bearings or a broken impeller. Symptoms of a failing water pump include coolant leaks near the pump and a whining noise. Since the water pump is a critical component of the cooling system, timely replacement is essential to prevent severe overheating issues. Blown Head Gasket A blown head gasket is one of the most serious cooling system problems. This occurs when the gasket that seals the engine block and cylinder head fails, allowing coolant to leak into the combustion chamber. Symptoms of a blown head gasket include white smoke from the exhaust, coolant loss, and engine overheating. Cooling System Repair in Murfreesboro, TN When you need auto repair in Murfreesboro, TN and the surrounding area, contact ATL Total Car Care at  615-813-9970  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!