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Why wont your car start after upper radiator hose burst I fixed still start?

A burst upper radiator hose, even after being fixed, can prevent your car from starting in a few ways, all related to overheating or its aftermath:

* Overheating Damage: The burst hose likely caused the engine to overheat severely. This can lead to several problems:

* Warped Cylinder Head: Extreme heat can warp the cylinder head, causing the head gasket to fail. This prevents proper compression and the engine won't start.

* Cracked Engine Block: In severe cases, the engine block itself can crack. This is a catastrophic failure.

* Seized Engine: The extreme heat can seize the engine, meaning internal parts are stuck together and won't turn.

* Low Coolant Level: Even after fixing the hose, the coolant level is likely critically low. This can lead to overheating as soon as the engine starts. Many cars have sensors that prevent starting if the coolant level is too low to protect against further damage.

* Damaged Water Pump: The overheating might have damaged the water pump. A malfunctioning water pump is crucial for proper engine cooling, and a failure would prevent reliable starting and operation.

* Electrical Issues: In some cases, the overheating might have damaged electrical components near the engine, like sensors or wiring, that affect the starting system. A sensor malfunction could prevent the car from starting.

* Air in the Cooling System: After fixing the hose, you need to properly bleed the cooling system to remove air pockets. Air in the system prevents proper coolant circulation, leading to overheating and possibly preventing starting.

What to do:

1. Check the Coolant Level: Add coolant (the correct type for your car!) to the proper level. Do *not* start the car until you do.

2. Check for Leaks: Inspect the repair area for any continued leaks.

3. Check for Obvious Damage: Look for any signs of damage to the engine or components around it, such as cracks or obvious melting.

4. Try Starting (Briefly): Attempt to start the engine for a few seconds only. If it doesn't start, stop immediately. Continued cranking with a severely overheated engine could cause further damage.

5. Have it Towed: If the car still won't start, or if you see any signs of damage, have it towed to a mechanic. Attempting to diagnose and fix a severely overheated engine yourself could lead to costly repairs.

Ignoring the issue will likely lead to more extensive and expensive repairs. Get professional help to prevent further damage.