When you turn the key in the ignition and your Car wont start just clicks, it can be a frustrating experience. However, if all you hear is clicking noises, you may be able to identify and fix the problem quickly. This quick diagnosis guide will walk you through the steps needed to troubleshoot the issue and get your vehicle back on the road.

Whether you’re an experienced car owner or a novice, this guide will provide you with easy-to-follow instructions that will help you identify the issue causing your car to make clicking sounds when you attempt to start it.

First, let’s take a look at the most likely cause of a car not starting but only clicking: a loose or corroded battery connection. Keep reading to find out more about how to identify and fix this issue.

Check the Battery Connections

If you hear a clicking sound when you turn the key and your Car wont start just clicks, one common cause for this issue is a loose or corroded battery connection. Before you try anything else, you should check your battery connections. Be sure to wear safety gloves and goggles while conducting this check.

First, inspect the battery terminals for any looseness, cracks, or corrosion. If there is any corrosion, pour a mixture of baking soda and water on the terminal and clean it with a wire brush. Then, disconnect the battery cables and clean the connectors with the wire brush. Once cleaned, reconnect the cables securely and tighten the clamps.

If the battery connections are tight and free of corrosion, then the issue may lie elsewhere. Check out the next section for steps on assessing the starter motor.

Assess the Starter Motor

If your Car wont start just clicks and only produces clicking sounds after checking the battery connections, the next step is to assess the starter motor. A faulty starter motor is a common issue for a car that fails to start.

Performing a Starter Motor Test

Performing a starter motor test can help determine if the starter motor is functioning correctly. To perform this test, first, turn on the headlights and try to start the engine. If the lights dim significantly or go out completely, it may indicate a faulty starter motor. Next, locate the starter motor under the hood and, using a voltmeter, test the voltage at the starter motor terminals. If the voltage reading is above 10 volts, the starter motor is likely functioning correctly.

Possible Signs of a Faulty Starter Motor

There are a few signs you can look out for that may indicate a faulty starter motor. These include a grinding noise when trying to start your car, a whirring sound but no cranking or clicking noise, or a slow crank or no crank at all. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to replace the starter motor.

Replacing the starter motor can be a complicated and difficult process. It may be best to consult a mechanic or an authorized dealership for assistance if you are not comfortable or familiar with this type of repair..

Explore Other Potential Causes

If the battery connections and starter motor are not the culprits of your car’s clicking noise, there could be several other potential causes. One of them is a faulty ignition switch. This can cause a disruption in the electrical flow and prevent the car from starting. To troubleshoot this issue, try turning the key to the “on” position and check if the dashboard lights turn on. If they don’t, it’s a sign of a faulty ignition switch.

Another possible cause is a bad solenoid. The solenoid is responsible for connecting the battery to the starter motor and igniting the engine. Over time, this component can get worn out and require replacement. To check if this is the issue, turn the key to start the car and listen for a clicking sound near the engine. If you hear this sound, it’s likely that the solenoid needs to be replaced.

A malfunctioning fuel pump could also be a reason for your car’s clicking noise. The fuel pump pumps fuel from the tank to the engine and if it’s not working properly, the engine won’t start. To diagnose this issue, turn the key to “on” and listen for a faint buzzing sound coming from the fuel tank. If you don’t hear anything, it’s a sign of a faulty fuel pump.

If you’ve gone through all of the troubleshooting steps and still can’t seem to find the issue, it may be time to consult a mechanic. They can perform more in-depth diagnostic tests and pinpoint the exact cause of the problem.

Remember, when your car won’t start and only produces clicking noises, it’s important to take action quickly. With our quick diagnosis guide, you can troubleshoot the issue on your own and get back on the road as soon as possible.