Methods that *might* work (depending on the nature of the starter failure):
* Jump Starting: This only works if the battery is good. A bad starter doesn't always mean a dead battery. If the battery has sufficient charge, jump-starting might bypass the faulty starter momentarily allowing you to start the engine. However, if the starter is completely failed, this won't work.
* Manual Start (Manual Transmission Vehicles Only): If you have a manual transmission car, you might be able to push-start it. This requires some skill and coordination, involving pushing the car to a sufficient speed, then quickly engaging the clutch and putting the car in gear while releasing the clutch. This is *not* recommended if you're unfamiliar with this method; doing it improperly can damage the transmission.
* Directly Engaging the Starter (Extremely Dangerous and Not Recommended): This is a very dangerous method and should only be attempted by experienced mechanics with the proper safety precautions and understanding of electrical systems. It involves bypassing the starting system and directly applying power to the starter motor. Improperly doing this can lead to severe electrical shock, fire, or damage to your car.
Methods that *won't* work:
* Anything involving simply trying to turn the key repeatedly: This will only drain your battery faster.
* Tapping on the starter: While sometimes a loose connection might cause intermittent problems, a truly bad starter usually requires replacement.
What you should actually do:
Instead of attempting risky DIY repairs, your best bet is to call a tow truck or roadside assistance and have your car towed to a mechanic. A mechanic can properly diagnose the problem (it might not even be the starter; it could be a battery issue, a faulty ignition switch, etc.) and repair or replace the necessary component. Trying to fix a starter yourself is generally difficult and risky, especially without the right tools and knowledge.
