Why does my car make a clicking noise and not start?
A clicking noise when trying to start the car prevents the engine from turning over, often forcing drivers to try repeatedly for up to half an hour before it finally works. Even after a replacement, a starter can sometimes produce a squeaking sound as the car starts up.
What people tried
Every workaround mentioned in the threads below. We haven’t tested any of them — and nobody here is claiming they worked.
- 1trying repeatedly until it works
- 2connecting the blade connector directly to the battery
- 3cleaning and greasing battery and solenoid contacts
In their words
Unedited, most upvoted first, each linked to the thread it came from.
“when I try to start the car, I hear clicking noise and the car doesn’t start.”source ↗
“Sometimes, I have to try again and again for up to half an hour and then it suddenly works.”source ↗
cdauth · Mechanics Stack Exchange · 6 upvotes
“Finally replaced the starter today and it is squeaking as it starts. Is this an issue?”source ↗
ByAnyMemesNecassary · r/MechanicAdvice · 1 upvotes
Where this came up
People with this problem also raised
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- 8Why is my AC making a loud noise after changing thermostats?
- 62How to explain an intermittent car noise to a mechanic