Can You Recover a Car That Won’t Start? A Guide to Non-Runner Vehicle Recovery

A vehicle does not necessarily need to start or drive normally in order to be recovered. Cars can become non-runners for many reasons, from a flat battery or electrical fault to a serious mechanical problem.

The method used to recover the vehicle will depend on its condition, location and accessibility. Whether the vehicle can roll, steer and brake can also affect how straightforward the loading process will be.

What Is a Non-Runner Vehicle?

A non-runner is generally a vehicle that cannot be driven normally under its own power.

This could mean that the engine does not start at all, or that the vehicle starts but cannot be safely driven because of a mechanical, electrical or other fault.

Common reasons a vehicle may become a non-runner include:

• A flat or failed battery
• Starter motor problems
• Alternator or charging system failure
• Engine faults
• Electrical problems
• Immobiliser or starting issues
• Transmission or clutch failure
• Overheating
• Accident or collision damage
• A vehicle that has been unused for an extended period

Can a Car Be Recovered If It Won’t Start?

Yes. A car that will not start can generally still be recovered.

Vehicle recovery equipment is designed to transport vehicles that cannot complete their journey under their own power. The vehicle can be safely loaded and transported to a garage, repair centre, dealership, home address or another suitable destination.

If your car has broken down and cannot be driven, find out more about our non-runner vehicle recovery service.

What If the Car Won’t Roll?

A non-running vehicle that can still roll and steer normally may be relatively straightforward to load. However, some vehicles have additional problems that prevent the wheels from moving freely.

This may happen because of:

• Seized brakes
• Locked wheels
• Transmission problems
• Electronic parking brake faults
• Steering lock problems
• Accident damage
• Damaged suspension or wheels

These situations may require additional recovery equipment or a different loading approach.

When requesting recovery, explain whether the vehicle can roll and steer. If you are unsure, simply describe what happens when you try to move the vehicle.

How Is a Non-Running Car Recovered?

The exact process will depend on the vehicle and its condition, but a typical non-runner recovery may involve the following steps:

Where Can a Non-Running Vehicle Be Recovered To?

The appropriate destination will depend on why the vehicle cannot be driven and what you plan to do next.

If you have a preferred repairer, learn more about our car recovery to a garage service.

Should I Try to Jump Start the Car First?

If a flat or discharged battery is the cause of the problem, a jump start may allow the vehicle to start without requiring recovery.

However, not every non-starting vehicle has a flat battery. Problems with the starter motor, alternator, immobiliser, fuel system or other components can produce similar symptoms.

If you suspect a battery-related problem, our jump start and flat battery assistance service may be appropriate.

If the vehicle cannot be made safe to drive, recovery may still be required.

What If the Car Breaks Down Away From Home?

A vehicle can become a non-runner anywhere, including at home, at work, in a car park or during a journey.

If your vehicle breaks down while travelling, your immediate priority should be safety. Where possible and safe, move away from moving traffic and use your hazard warning lights.

Once you are in a safe position, you can arrange roadside assistance or vehicle recovery.

Our guide on what to do if your car breaks down provides more information about the steps to take following a breakdown.

Roadside Assistance or Non-Runner Recovery?

If you do not know why your vehicle will not start, roadside assistance may be appropriate where there is a possibility that the problem can be assessed or resolved at your location.

If the vehicle has a known fault, cannot be safely repaired at the roadside or requires workshop facilities, vehicle recovery may be the more appropriate option.

Our guide to roadside assistance vs vehicle recovery explains the difference between these services in more detail.

How Much Does Non-Runner Vehicle Recovery Cost?

The cost of recovering a non-running vehicle depends on several factors. These can include the distance involved, the vehicle's condition, its location and whether additional equipment is required to load it safely.

A vehicle that rolls and steers normally may have different recovery requirements from one with locked wheels or accident damage.

For more information about the factors that can affect pricing, read our guide: How Much Does Car Recovery Cost in the UK?.

What Information Should I Provide When Arranging Non-Runner Recovery?

Providing accurate information can help determine the appropriate recovery equipment and make the process more straightforward.

Where possible, provide:

• The vehicle make and model
• The vehicle registration number
• The vehicle's current location
• The required destination
• Whether the engine starts
• Whether the vehicle can roll
• Whether the steering works normally
• Whether the brakes are operational
• Any known mechanical or electrical faults
• Details of any accident damage
• Any access restrictions at the collection point

Don't worry if you cannot answer every question. Providing as much information as you know can still help when arranging the recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Non-Runner Vehicle Recovery