I had an interesting situation this morning: My car wouldn't turn over.

My driveway is at a 15-20 degree incline. I usually park it "uphill" (meaning, the front of the car sits higher than rear of car). But, last night, I decided to park "downhill" for the first time ever, with the front of the car sitting lower. It took forever to start the car (probably cranked it like 20 times). I've never had this problem before. Of course, it was in the teens last night.

So, is it better to park uphill than downhill? Does it matter? I figured downhill would be "better" since all the oil, fuel, etc... is naturally drawn towards the engine. Is there something wrong with my car? Fuel pump going out? Is there a proper method to start a car when situated on a decline?

2/5/2009 11:04:06 AM

Quote :

"My car wouldn't turn over."

Quote :

"probably cranked it like 20 times"

so which was it?

2/5/2009 11:08:07 AM

Alright, alright... sheesh... picky Ricky

Quote :

"My car wouldn't turn over as easily. "

2/5/2009 11:12:23 AM

Doesn't matter.
You're going to need a battery soon.
Hope you got some jumper cables in the car.

2/5/2009 11:29:14 AM

take a look at the battery.

2/5/2009 11:30:49 AM

i've got a feeling someone is going to say your battery is about to die

2/5/2009 11:38:21 AM

how much fuel was in the tank?

2/5/2009 11:38:52 AM

I just replaced my battery last year... interesting... Fuel tank was 3/4 full. Lights were all fully lit at first turn of ignition. I've seen the "batterium deathist" syndrome before. But, from what I experienced, I can't see it being the battery. Time will tell...

2/5/2009 11:46:24 AM

last night it was a lot colder than when you park the other way, +1 for battery

2/5/2009 12:43:02 PM