Why Your Car Clicks but Won’t Start
Few things are more frustrating than turning your key (or pushing your start button) and hearing… click… click… click… but nothing else happens. If your car is clicking but won’t start, don’t panic — this is one of the most common issues drivers face, and in most cases, it’s something that can be fixed quickly.
What Causes the Clicking Sound?
A rapid clicking noise when trying to start your car is often a warning sign that something in your starting system isn’t working correctly. Here are the most common causes:
Dead or Weak Battery
Your battery provides the power needed to start the engine. If it’s low or failing, the starter won’t get enough juice to turn the engine over, resulting in a clicking sound.
Corroded or Loose Battery Terminals 
Even a good battery won’t function properly if the connections are corroded or loose. Poor contact can prevent the electrical current from reaching the starter.
Faulty Starter Motor
The starter motor is responsible for turning your engine when you start the car. If it’s worn out or damaged, it may make a clicking sound instead of engaging the engine.
Charging System Issues
Problems with your alternator or other components in the charging system can leave your battery underpowered, leading to a no-start situation.
How to Diagnose a Clicking Car
Here are a few steps you can take:
Check the battery: Look for corrosion on terminals and ensure connections are tight.
Try a jump start: If the car starts, the battery is likely the culprit.
Listen carefully: Clicking from the starter may indicate a starter motor issue.
Don’t Ignore the Problem
A clicking car is your vehicle’s way of asking for help. Ignoring it can leave you stranded at the worst possible time. At Dickerson Automotive in Spanish Fork, UT, we specialize in quick diagnostics to identify whether it’s a battery, starter, or other issue, and get you back on the road safely.
Tips to Avoid a Clicking Car
Test your battery regularly, especially before winter or long trips.
Keep battery terminals clean and tight.
Replace your battery every 3–5 years, depending on use.
Schedule routine maintenance for your starter and charging system.
Check out a real-life situation we handled today!- https://youtube.com/shorts/CKd-UiVghII
Need Help?
If your car is clicking but won’t start, don’t wait! Bring it to Dickerson Automotive, where our trained technicians can quickly diagnose and fix the issue — often the same day.
📞 Call us today or schedule your appointment online to get back on the road safely.