I have a 05 Neon that won't start. I think that auto shutdown is activated. What causes that? Thanks
Answers from the Automotive Experts
Hello Jamie, if a car won't start it's fuel or spark that is the fault. The auto shut off is designed to protect YOU in case of an accident.
Dear Jamie,
There can be many reasons why a car does not start. If you could give us more details we could help you diagnose it a little better. Questions I would ask are, does the engine crank but not start? Does the engine do nothing at all when you turn the key? Has anything happened to the car that would make it not start? Have you been having trouble starting it before now? Do you have an alarm system on the vehicle?
Lori
Hi Jamie,
The first thing that came to mind is to ask you a few questions.
Question: Has your car been in an accident lately? Has it been hit from the back?
I ask because the automatic shut-down relay is a safety feature and is usually activated when the vehicle has been hit hard, it shuts down the fuel flow and electrical system to prevent a fire etc..
However, if the vehicle has not been in an accident it could have other issues such as the relay has gone bad, or the computer.
I recommend taking the vehicle in for a inspection.
Gayle Clark
The auto shut down feature is usually caused by low engine oil pressure,
excessive engine temperature or excessive engine speed. it is unusual for this
to become a constant no-start condition. Your no start condition could be caused
by any number of reasons. Your '05 neon should still be covered under the
manufacturer's warranty and should be accurately diagnosed by your local dodge
dealer or an ASE Certified Automotive Technician.