Car trouble · Won’t start / battery

My car clicks but won’t start

You turn the key or push the button and hear clicking, but the engine doesn’t turn over. This is most often a battery problem.

Get to it this week

A starting point, not a diagnosis. Most parts stores read check-engine codes and test batteries for free.

Likely causes — tick the parts you want

  1. A dead or weak battery

    most likely · Most people can do this

    How to check: Turn on the headlights and try to start it. If the lights are dim or go out while it clicks, the battery is the likely answer. A jump start that works points the same way.

  2. Loose or corroded battery cables

    possible · Most people can do this

    How to check: Look at the battery posts for white, green or blue crust, and try to wiggle each cable clamp by hand. A clamp that moves or a crusty post can stop the power getting through.

  3. A failing starter motor

    possible · Doable with tools and a free afternoon

    How to check: If the headlights stay bright while you hear a single loud click, and a jump start does not help, the starter may be the problem rather than the battery.

Be careful

Wear eye protection and gloves around a battery — it holds acid and can give off explosive gas. Take the negative (black, minus) cable off first and put it back on last, and never let a metal tool touch both posts at once.

Your car — the counter needs this

If the counter doesn’t have a part, your shopper asks them to order it under your name and messages you the order number. When it comes in, send someone to collect it.

Not quite it?

My engine cranks but won’t startMy battery keeps dyingMy car cranks slowly when it’s cold
My car clicks but won’t start — likely causes and the parts · DriverRuns