Car won't start after an accident or collision

Symptoms

• Won't start after a collision, even minor
• Possible warning lights or a chime pattern
• May smell fuel or see fluid leaking
• Airbags may or may not have deployed

Likely causes

• CommonInertia/fuel cutoff switch tripped (some vehicles)Many vehicles automatically cut fuel delivery after a hard impact as a safety measure and need a manual reset.
• CommonBattery terminal knocked loose or battery damaged in the impactImpacts near the front of the car can disturb or damage the battery and its cables.
• PossibleDamaged wiring harness from the collisionCrumpled body panels can pinch or sever wiring.
• PossibleFuel line or fuel tank damageA damaged fuel system after a crash is a serious safety concern.
• Less commonAirbag control module has locked out the starter (some vehicles)Certain systems disable starting after airbag deployment until reset.

What to do

1. Check for any visible fuel smell, leaking fluid, or smoke; if present, do not attempt to start the car and move to a safe distance.
2. Look for visible damage to the battery, battery tray, or nearby wiring before doing anything else.
3. Check your owner's manual for an inertia/fuel cutoff switch and its reset location and procedure, common on many vehicles after a hard impact.
4. If there's no leak or smell and the cutoff switch (if equipped) is reset, you can attempt to start once, watching closely for any warning signs.
5. If it doesn't start or anything seems wrong (smoke, smell, warning lights, strange noise), stop and don't try again.
6. Have the vehicle towed and professionally inspected after any collision, even a seemingly minor one, before continuing to drive it.
7. Document the accident and any damage with photos before and after any attempt to start it, for insurance purposes.
8. Never assume a car is safe to drive just because it starts after a crash; have a full inspection done first.

When to call a pro

Any car that won't start after an accident should be inspected by a qualified shop or the insurance-approved repair facility before being driven again.

Safety