If your car clicks but won’t start, it’s likely due to a battery issue. To jumpstart your car, you’ll need a set of jumper cables and a working vehicle. Connect the red cable to the positive terminals and the black cable to the negative terminals. Start the working car, then try starting your car. If it starts, let it run for a few minutes before disconnecting the cables.

Why Does My Car Click but Won’t Start?

When your car clicks but won’t start, it usually indicates a problem with the battery or the starter motor. The clicking sound is often the starter solenoid attempting to engage, but failing due to insufficient power. Let’s explore the common causes and solutions for this issue.

Common Causes of a Clicking Car

1. Weak or Dead Battery: A low battery charge is the most common reason for a clicking sound. It may not have enough power to turn over the engine.
2. Corroded Battery Terminals: Corrosion on battery terminals can impede the flow of electricity, resulting in a weak connection.
3. Faulty Starter Motor: If the starter motor is failing, it may not engage the engine properly, causing a clicking noise.
4. Bad Alternator: If the alternator isn’t charging the battery, it can lead to a drained battery.
5. Loose or Damaged Wiring: Electrical connections that are loose or damaged can prevent the starter from receiving enough power.

How to Jumpstart a Car with a Clicking Sound

Jumpstarting your car is a quick way to get it running if the battery is the issue. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

What You’ll Need

• Jumper cables
• Another vehicle with a fully charged battery

Step-by-Step Process

1. Position the Vehicles: Park the working vehicle close to the one that won’t start, ensuring they don’t touch.
2. Turn Off Both Cars: Make sure both vehicles are turned off and the keys are removed.
3. Connect the Jumper Cables:
   • Attach one red clamp to the positive terminal of the dead battery.
   • Connect the other red clamp to the positive terminal of the good battery.
   • Attach one black clamp to the negative terminal of the good battery.
   • Connect the other black clamp to an unpainted metal surface on the car with the dead battery, such as a bolt or bracket.
4. Start the Working Vehicle: Turn on the engine of the working car and let it run for a few minutes.
5. Start the Dead Vehicle: Try starting the car with the dead battery. If it starts, let it run for a few minutes to build up a charge.
6. Disconnect the Jumper Cables: Remove the cables in reverse order, starting with the black clamp on the metal surface.

Safety Tips

• Ensure the cables do not touch each other while connected to a battery.
• Avoid jumping a battery that is cracked or leaking.

What to Do If Jumpstarting Fails

If your car still won’t start after attempting to jump it, consider the following:

• Check the Battery: It might need replacing if it’s old or damaged.
• Inspect the Starter: A faulty starter may require professional repair or replacement.
• Examine the Alternator: If your alternator is faulty, it won’t charge the battery properly.
• Consult a Professional: If you’re unable to diagnose the problem, seek help from a mechanic.

People Also Ask

How Do I Know If My Battery Is Dead?

A dead battery often shows signs like dim headlights, a slow engine crank, or no response when turning the key. You can test the battery with a multimeter; a reading below 12.4 volts usually indicates a problem.

Can a Bad Alternator Cause a Clicking Noise?

Yes, a bad alternator can lead to a clicking noise if it fails to charge the battery, resulting in insufficient power for the starter motor.

What Are the Signs of a Failing Starter Motor?

Signs of a failing starter include a single loud click or no sound at all when turning the key, as well as intermittent starting issues.

How Long Should I Run My Car After a Jumpstart?

After a successful jumpstart, let your car run for at least 20 to 30 minutes to allow the alternator to charge the battery fully.

Can I Jumpstart a Car in the Rain?

Yes, you can jumpstart a car in the rain, but exercise caution to avoid getting water on the battery or electrical components.

Conclusion

Jumpstarting a car that clicks but won’t start is a straightforward process that can quickly resolve battery-related issues. If jumpstarting doesn’t work, further investigation into the battery, starter, or alternator may be necessary. For more detailed guidance, consider consulting a professional mechanic. If you’re interested in learning more about car maintenance, check out our articles on battery care and troubleshooting starter issues.