We’ve all been there before – you go to the gas station, fill up your car, and then try to start it up only to have it not turn on.
This can be a frustrating experience, especially if you’re in a hurry.
Do not panic!
In this post, we will discuss the causes of why your car won’t start after refilling with gas and what you can do about it!
The common reason why your car won’t ignite after filling it with gas is simply that you’ve forgotten to turn the ignition on.
It sounds like a silly mistake, but it happens more often than you think!
Other common reasons include a dirty or faulty gas cap, a problem with the fuel pump, or water in the gas.
Top Reasons Why Your Car Won’t Start After Refilling the Gas Tank
If you happen to refill your car with gas and it fails to start, don’t worry. This is a common problem, and there are a number of reasons why it may happen.
Here are seven possible explanations as to why your car won’t start after you’ve filled up the gas tank.
Damaged EVAP Control Valve
One of the reasons your car may not ignite after filling up the gas tank is because the EVAP control valve is damaged. The purpose of this valve is to regulate the release of fuel vapors from the canister so that they can be burned in the engine.
If the valve is damaged, it may not close well, releasing excess vapors, which are then pushed into the intake manifold.
When this happens, it will cause the engine to flood, and as a result, it will not start. The best way to fix this problem is to replace the EVAP control valve.
Spoilt Battery
Another possible reason your car may not start is that the battery is spoiled or there are loose connections.
When you try to start the engine, the starter motor will not draw enough power from the battery to turn over the engine. Most of the vehicles’ batteries are designed to last about three to five years.
If your battery is older than that, it may not have enough power to start the engine, especially if it’s cold outside. It is crucial to check for corrosions and regularly clean the terminals with baking soda.
You can jump-start your car from another vehicle with a good battery or use a portable jump starter to get moving.
Failed Fuel Pump
If your vehicle is not starting after you’ve filled up the tank, it could be because the fuel pump has failed. The purpose of the fuel pump is to send gas from the tank to the engine. If it fails, there will not be enough fuel reaching the engine, and as a result, it will not start.
However, a damaged fuel pump will provide you with other symptoms before it ultimately gives up. You may notice your car is having difficulty starting when it’s cold, the engine is sputtering, or there’s a decrease in fuel economy.
A reputable mechanic will diagnose a faulty fuel pump and replace it if needed.
Faulty Alternator
The alternator is responsible for charging the battery while the engine is running. If it fails, the battery will not have enough power to start the engine. In some cases, you may drive for a while before the battery dies completely.
However, eventually, it will run out of power, and the engine will not start.
One way to tell if the alternator is failing is if the headlights are dimmer than usual or if the battery warning light comes on. If you suspect the alternator is failing, take it to a mechanic so they can test it and replace it if necessary.
Starter Motor Issues
Another reason your car may not start is that there is a problem with the starter motor. The starter is responsible for turning over the engine when you start the vehicle. If it’s not working, the engine will not start.
One way to tell if there is a problem with the starter is if you notice a clicking noise when you turn the key on. Fortunately, there are ways to start the engine, even with a faulty starter motor.
You can bang the starter with a wrench to get past a dead spot. If you have a manual car, you can push start it to keep the engine going.
Malfunctioning Sparks Plugs
If the engine is not starting, it could be because the spark plugs are not working correctly. The purpose of the spark plugs is to create a spark that ignites the fuel in the engine.
Spark plugs can fail for several reasons. They may be old and worn out, or they could be damaged. If the spark plugs are not working, the engine will not start.
One way to tell if the spark plugs are the problem is if the engine is cranking but not starting. Another symptom of bad spark plugs is if the engine is misfiring. To avoid spark problems, you should replace them based on the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Clogged Fuel Filters
The fuel filters are responsible for keeping contaminants out of the fuel system. Over time, they can become clogged with dirt and debris. If the fuel filters are too clogged, it will restrict fuel flow to the engine, and the car will not start.
Before this problem gets too severe, you may notice that the car runs out of power or stalling. You may also notice that the vehicle is taking longer to start.
Most manufacturers recommend changing fuel filters as part of the essential maintenance based on the mileage or years of use. You should replace them with quality filters to avoid future problems.
What Action to Take If Your Car Won’t Start After Refilling It with Gas
It can be frustrating if your car won’t start after you’ve just filled up the tank. However, there are a few things you can do to try to get it started.
Below are a few tips on what to do if your car won’t start after gas refilling:
- Try starting the car once more; maybe this time, it will work
- Check to see if the fuel pump is working
- If you have a manual transmission car, try to push start it
- Check the battery terminals to make sure they are clean and tight
- Check the spark plugs to see if they need to be replaced
- Check the fuel filters to see if they need to be replaced
If none of this works, then you’ll need to call a tow truck or mechanic to take a look at it. Do not take more than you can handle, as you may be risking further damage to the car.
Could Gas Be the Issue?
It’s also possible that the gas itself is the problem. If you’ve just filled up and the car won’t start, it could be because the gas is spoiled. “Bad gas” simply means that the gas can’t burn as it should and is no longer suitable for the car. This can happen if the gas sits in the tank for too long.
Symptoms of a Bad Gas
The symptoms of a bad gas are similar to those of other issues on this list. The car won’t start, or it may start and then stall. You may also notice that the vehicle is running out of power or stalling.
If you think the gas may be bad, the best thing to do is drain the tank and fill it up with fresh gas. This will usually solve the problem.
Wrapping Up…
There are a few different reasons why your car won’t start after gas refilling. It could be the starter motor, spark plugs, or fuel filters. Also, refilling with bad or spoiled gas could be the reason.
If you’re having trouble starting your car, try some of the tips listed above. If none of them work, then you’ll need to call a tow truck or mechanic.
