At some point, every car owner has turned the key and experienced the frustration of a Car wont start just clicks and only produces a clicking sound. The problem could be due to various reasons, such as a dead battery, a faulty starter motor, or issues with the ignition switch or wiring. Whatever the cause, it’s important to get your car back on the road as soon as possible.
In this article, we’ll discuss the most common causes of a car that won’t start and only clicks. We’ll also provide you with a quick troubleshoot guide to help identify the problem so that you can get your car back on the road in no time. With our step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to diagnose and fix the issue with ease.
Read on to find out more about what to do when your car won’t start and just clicks.
Dead Battery
A dead battery can cause your car to fail to start and produce a clicking sound. To check your battery’s voltage, you need a multimeter. A fully charged battery should have a reading of 12.6 volts or higher.
If your reading is too low, then you might need to recharge your battery. However, if your battery is old or damaged, you might need to replace it.
If you don’t have jumper cables, you can call a nearby mechanic, or ask for help from anyone near you. If you have jumper cables, connect them to your car’s battery and another car’s battery, then start your car to recharge the battery.
If you’re bump-starting the car, you need to push the car until it’s going, then jump in quickly and engage the clutch while it’s rolling. This will start the engine and should generate enough power to recharge your car’s battery.
Faulty Starter Motor
If your car won’t start and only produces a clicking noise, it could also be due to a faulty starter motor. Signs of a failing starter motor include a grinding noise when starting the car, a slow cranking sound, or the engine not turning over at all. To test the starter motor, use a multimeter to check the voltage to the motor and ensure it is within the manufacturer’s specifications.
If your starter motor needs replacing, it’s best to have a professional mechanic perform the task. However, if you’re comfortable with DIY repairs, here are some tips to replace a faulty starter motor:
- Disconnect the battery’s negative cable to avoid electrical shock
- Locate the starter motor location in the car owner’s manual or online resources
- Remove any components obstructing access to the starter motor
- Remove the bolts attaching the starter motor to the engine block
- Disconnect the electrical wiring from the starter motor
- Install the new starter motor and reattach the bolts and electrical wiring
- Reconnect the battery’s negative cable
Issues with the Ignition Switch or Wiring
Another common cause of a car that won’t start and clicks could be the ignition switch or wiring. If the ignition switch is faulty, it could prevent the car from starting. Additionally, if there is a wiring issue, it could also lead to a clicking sound when you turn the key.
To check the ignition switch, you can use a multimeter to test the voltage while turning the key. If there is no voltage, then the ignition switch is likely the culprit. You should also inspect the wiring for any signs of damage or wear that could cause connectivity issues. Be sure to check all connections are tight and clean.
If there is an issue with the ignition switch, you may need to replace it. On the other hand, if there is a problem with the wiring, you can fix it yourself if you have the necessary knowledge and skillset. However, it’s recommended to seek professional help if you’re unsure about your abilities.
By following these troubleshooting tips, you’ll be able to identify the cause of your car’s clicking sound when it won’t start. While some issues can be easily fixed, it’s always better to consult a professional mechanic if you’re not confident in dealing with the problem yourself.
