The Toyota Camry has always been renowned as one of the most reliable cars on the market. Many owners have claimed to rack up over 200,000 miles without any serious issues to report. If you own one, then you can probably give it the same praise. However, there are certain times when your Camry may not start. Here is why.

There are a few reasons why your Toyota Camry won’t start

If your Toyota Camry isn’t starting, then there are a few things you can check first. According to VEHQ, the top five reasons could be a dead battery, a defective alternator, a broken ignition switch, a clogged fuel filter, or an empty gas tank. Of course, you can rule out the last issue by simply looking at the fuel gauge.

A dead battery is the first thing you should check

Before assuming the worst, the first part you can check is the battery. Yes, Camry’s are reliable cars, but their batteries die just like any other. As such, if none of the electrical components are working when you turn the key or the car won’t “turn over,” then try jump-starting the battery first. If it starts, then you’re good to go. If not, then you may need a new battery or even a new alternator.

A faulty starter could be to blame

If your Toyota Camry doesn’t start and you just hear a “click, click, click” sound when trying to turn it on, then the starter could be to blame. In addition to the clicking, you may also notice that the lights will turn even though the engine won’t, which could pinpoint it as an issue with the starter.

The ignition switch could need replacing

If the battery is working well, but the car still takes two to three times to start up properly, then you may need to replace the ignition switch. Repair Pal says that you can narrow down the culprit by turning on the headlights and checking the dashboard lights. If everything lights up, then it’s definitely not the battery, and it could be the ignition switch. To fix it, you can either do it yourself or have it replaced by a qualified mechanic.

If all else fails, check the fuel filter

In addition to the common issues listed above, your Camry won’t start if its fuel filter is plugged up. This issue can occur over time as gas flows through the fuel pump, so if your Camry is of an older vintage, then a clogged fuel filter is probable. The easiest way to get it replaced is to have a qualified mechanic take care of it, but if you’re mechanically inclined, it’s possible to get it done in your own garage.

What to do if your Toyota Camry won’t start

The next time you walk out to your Toyota Camry and hear the dreaded clicking noise when you turn the key or push the ignition button, know that it could be one of these five issues. Hopefully, it’s something as simple as a dead battery, but if not, then you may have to get it towed or take a trip to the mechanic to figure it out.

Don’t worry; Toyota Camrys are still highly reliable cars; they have minor issues sometimes – much like any other car.