Finding the reason why your engine will not start can be a very frustrating problem. The battery and starter motor's principal job is to start the engine. While the engine is running, the alternator, voltage regulator and battery all work together to provide stable source of power for your car and to recharge the battery. All of these components, including the wiring and wiring connections, must be in good working order to start and operate your engine.
Assuming you have sufficient fuel, the engine and ignition system is in good working order, and it is above freezing, the following is a list of four simple instructions on how to troubleshoot the problem and isolate the source:
1. If there are no lights, CHECK the wiring, battery terminal mating surfaces, and grounding straps for corrosion or oxidation. Clean each end to bare metal. Bad or corroded connections are very common causes. If good, then
2. RECHARGE and TEST the battery for latent damage and TEST the charging system. If good, then
3. Test the starter. Burned solenoid contacts or worn starter motor brushes are common problems for older vehicles.
4. If the problem continues or the battery drains overnight, TEST for excessive parasitic (ignition key off) drain.
Some auto parts or battery stores in the United States and Canada, like Auto Zone, Wal-Mart, Sears, Pep Boys, etc., will test your battery, charging system and starter for free. Simple stuff, like corrosion, bad cable connections, loose alternator belt, or a dead battery, can cause your car not start. If the problem is not corrected, taken your vehicle to a good auto electric shop is highly recommended.