You turn the key and hear a fast clicking sound, or a single heavy click, but the engine does not turn. What you hear helps narrow it down.
What the sound tells you
- Rapid clicking. Usually a low battery. The starter relay opens and closes because there is not enough power.
- Single loud click. Often the starter motor or solenoid, or a poor connection at the battery.
- Nothing at all. Could be a dead battery, a loose terminal, a faulty ignition switch or a blown fuse.
- Engine turns slowly. A weak battery, hot starter or corroded cables.
Quick checks
- Do the dashboard lights come on bright, dim or not at all?
- Are the battery terminals tight and clean?
- Does the car start with a jump? If so, the battery or charging is likely.
- Does tapping do anything? A starter that works only sometimes is wearing out.
Avoid repeated cranking
Trying again and again can overheat the starter and drain the battery further. If two or three tries fail, stop and get it checked. A short test with a meter usually shows whether it is the battery, the starter or the wiring.