Car clicks and battery dies when you try to start

If you own a car, you may have encountered a situation where it won’t start, and all you hear is a clicking sound. In most cases, this sound indicates that your battery is low, and it lacks the power to get your car started. The clicking sound is caused by the starter relay, which tries to start the engine but doesn’t have enough power to do so.

There can be several reasons why your car’s battery is not producing enough power. It could be due to a faulty alternator, corroded battery terminals, or a dead battery. But first, let’s take a closer look at the starter relay that is causing the clicking sound.

The starter relay is an essential component of your car’s starting system. When you turn the key, it sends power to the starter motor, which cranks the engine. However, if the battery is low, it won’t be able to provide enough power to the starter motor, and you will hear a clicking sound instead of the engine starting.

Car Clicks and Battery Dies: Troubleshooting Tips for Starting Issues

Check the Battery

The most common cause for clicking and a dead battery is a weak or dead battery. Check the battery connections to make sure they are tight and free of any corrosion. If necessary, recharge the battery or replace it if it is too old or damaged.

Inspect the Starter

The starter is responsible for turning over the engine, so it is an important part to inspect if you are experiencing clicking and starting issues. A failed or worn-out starter can cause clicking sounds as it tries to engage but cannot start the engine. Have a mechanic inspect and repair or replace the starter if necessary.

Check the Alternator

The alternator is responsible for charging the battery while the engine is running. A failing alternator can cause the battery to drain quickly, resulting in clicking and a dead battery. Use a voltmeter to check the alternator’s output voltage, and if it is not within the recommended range, have the alternator replaced.

Inspect the Ignition Switch

The ignition switch sends a signal to the starter to engage and start the engine. A faulty ignition switch can cause clicking or other unusual sounds when you turn the key. Have a mechanic inspect and replace the ignition switch if necessary.

Conclusion

Clicks and starting issues can be frustrating and inconvenient, but they can be easily fixed with the right troubleshooting tips. By checking and inspecting the battery, starter, alternator, and ignition switch, you can identify and fix the problem and get back on the road with ease.

Check the Battery Connections

Inspect the Battery Terminals

The first thing to check when your car clicks and the battery dies is the battery’s terminals. Over time, the terminals may become corroded and loose, causing a poor connection to the battery. Use a voltmeter to test the power at the battery terminals. If there is no power, remove the battery cables and carefully inspect the terminals and the cable connection points. Clean any corrosion with a wire brush or sandpaper and make sure the cables are tight on the terminals.

Check the Battery Cables

If the battery terminals are clean and tight, next, check the battery cables for any damage or wear. Look for any cracks, breaks, or frayed wires that may cause a poor connection to the battery. If the cables are damaged, you may need to replace them. If the cables are in good condition, check the connections to the alternator and starter to ensure they are tight and secure.

Inspect the Battery

If the battery terminals and cables are in good condition, the next step is to inspect the battery itself. Check the battery for any signs of damage or leakage. You can also test the battery’s voltage with a voltmeter. A full battery should have a voltage of around 12.6 volts. If the battery voltage is low, it may need to be charged or replaced.

• Make sure your car’s electrical system is off before inspecting the battery.
• Wear gloves and eye protection when handling the battery.
• If you’re unsure how to inspect the battery connections or test the voltage, consult your car’s owner manual or a certified mechanic.

Test the Battery and Alternator

Step 1: Test the Battery

One of the main reasons for a car not starting is a dead battery. To test your battery, you need a voltmeter or a multimeter. Set the device to DC volts range and connect it to the battery terminals. A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts. If your battery reads less than 12 volts, it may be time to replace it.

Step 2: Test the Alternator

If your battery is healthy, the issue may lie with the alternator. You can test your alternator with a multimeter by following these steps:

1. Start your car and let it run for a few minutes.
2. Set your multimeter to DC volts range and connect it to the battery terminals. A healthy alternator should read around 14 volts.
3. If your alternator reads less than 14 volts, it may be time to replace it.

Step 3: Bring your Car to a Mechanic

If your battery and alternator are both healthy and your car still won’t start, it’s time to bring it to a mechanic. They will be able to diagnose the issue and provide you with a solution.

Remember, maintaining your car’s battery and alternator is an essential part of owning a car. Regularly testing and replacing them can help prevent starting issues in the future.

Replace the Starter

Diagnostics

Before replacing the starter, make sure that it is the actual problem. A faulty battery, alternator or electrical system can also cause the clicking noise. Use a voltmeter to test the battery and make sure it is holding a charge of at least 12 volts. You can also check the alternator by starting the car and disconnecting the negative battery terminal. If the car stalls, the alternator is faulty. If everything else is functioning well, then it’s time to replace the starter.

Replacement

When replacing the starter, there are a number of steps that need to be followed. First, disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical shocks. Then, locate the starter, which is usually mounted to the engine or the transmission. Remove the cables from the starter solenoid, followed by the bolts holding the starter in place. Once the starter is loose, remove it from the engine and replace it with a new one of the same make and model. Reconnect the cables and battery, and test the car by starting it.

Note that if you are not confident in performing this procedure, it’s recommended to take your car to a certified mechanic. They have the experience and expertise needed to get your car back on the road safely.

Additional Tips

• If you are replacing the starter yourself, be sure to purchase the correct size and type of starter for your specific make and model of car.
• It’s a good idea to replace other parts such as the starter solenoid, if the car has high mileage and these parts have never been replaced before.
• Always wear protective gloves and eye-wear when working with car parts.
• Remember to properly dispose of the old starter. Many auto parts stores offer recycling for used car parts.

Re-energizing your car starts with a well-functioning starter. By following these basic steps, you can successfully replace your starter and get back on the road again.

Consult a Mechanic for Further Assistance

Experiencing car trouble can be frustrating and stressful.

If you’ve tried to start your car and it clicks, or the battery dies, it’s essential to seek help from a qualified mechanic. These issues can often be a sign of a more significant problem, which may require professional expertise to diagnose and resolve.

A mechanic will be able to assess the condition of your car’s battery, starter, and alternator, identifying any underlying issues that may have caused the problem. They will be able to provide you with a detailed report, outlining the necessary repairs and costs, which can help prevent more severe issues down the line.

• Don’t ignore the problem.
• Avoid DIY fixes, as they can cause additional problems.
• Consult a trusted mechanic for help.

By working with a skilled mechanic, you’ll be able to get your car running safely and reliably again, restoring your peace of mind and getting you back on the road as quickly as possible.