Nothing is more frustrating than getting into your car and turning the key, only to hear a clicking sound and realize your vehicle Car wont start just clicks. This issue can be caused by several different factors, ranging from a dead battery to a faulty starter motor. However, with the right troubleshooting steps, you can quickly identify the problem and get your car running in no time.
In this section of our article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to troubleshooting your car if it won’t start but only clicks. We’ll explore the most common causes behind this problem and offer practical solutions to help you fix your car and get back on the road again. So, whether you’re an experienced mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, read on to find out how to solve this frustrating issue.
Read on to learn more about the troubleshooting steps you can take if your car won’t start and just clicks.
Contents
Dead Battery
A dead battery is one of the most common reasons for a car to click but not start. A dead battery can occur due to various reasons, such as age, lack of maintenance, or leaving the lights on overnight. When a battery is dead, it cannot provide enough power to crank the starter motor, which results in a clicking sound but no engine turnover.
Diagnosing the Problem:
To diagnose a dead battery problem, check if your headlights or other electrical components are working properly. If they are not, it could indicate a dead battery. Next, inspect the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion or loose connections. If the battery is old or in poor condition, it may also need to be replaced.
Addressing the Problem:
If your battery is dead and the connections are fine, you can try jump-starting your vehicle with the help of another car or a portable jump starter. After jump-starting, allow your car to idle for a while to recharge the battery. Alternatively, replace the battery if it is old or in poor condition. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take proper safety precautions while handling the battery.
Faulty Starter Motor
If you turn your key and hear a clicking sound, it could mean that the starter motor is faulty. The starter motor’s job is to engage the engine’s flywheel, so if it fails, it will not turn over the engine, resulting in a clicking noise.
One way to determine if your starter motor is the issue is to check the battery. If the battery is good, you can try bypassing the starter relay with a screwdriver to see if the starter motor will engage. If it does not, then it is likely the starter motor is faulty, and it will need to be replaced.
If you need to replace your starter motor, it is essential to choose the right replacement part for your vehicle’s make and model. You can consult your car’s manual or a mechanic for guidance. Additionally, regularly maintaining your starter motor can help prevent future starting issues. Keep an eye out for any abnormal sounds, such as grinding or whirring, and address them promptly.
Other Potential Causes
If your car still won’t start after checking the battery and starter motor, there may be other potential causes to consider. One possible culprit is a faulty ignition switch, which can prevent power from reaching the starter motor and result in a clicking noise from your car. To diagnose this issue, try turning your key to the “on” position and checking if your dashboard lights illuminate. If they don’t, your ignition switch may be faulty and require replacement.
Another possible cause of clicking noise from your car is a problem with the fuel pump. A faulty fuel pump can prevent fuel from reaching your engine and lead to starting issues. If you suspect your fuel pump may be the problem, you can try turning the key to the “on” position without starting the engine and listening for a humming sound. If you don’t hear a humming noise, it could indicate a problem with the fuel pump, and you may need to have it inspected and repaired by a professional.
Finally, issues with the electrical system can also cause a car to make a clicking noise when you try to start it. Loose or corroded connections, damaged wires, or a faulty alternator are just a few possible problems that can impact your car’s electrical system and lead to starting problems. If you suspect an electrical issue is to blame, it’s best to have a professional mechanic inspect and diagnose the problem for you.
