Easy lifehacks

Why does my engine click when I turn the key?

Why does my engine click when I turn the key?

If the source of the clicking is electrical, the starter (a small motor energized by the battery that gets the engine running) doesn’t have enough juice to stay powered. So instead, it rapidly turns on and off and produces a clicking noise! You may need to replace your alternator or battery.

Why does my car make a clicking noise when I turn the key?

Although a clicking sound can come from other sources such as the suspension, the most frequent and familiar clicking comes after turning the key or pressing the ignition button. There might be a sluggish single click or there might be a jarring spray of clicking, and both are symptoms of parts asking for assistance.

Why do I hear a clicking noise when I start my riding mower?

The clicking noise comes from a part called the starter solenoid. The solenoid connects the battery to the starter motor when the solenoid is energized. The key switch and the safety switches in the starter circuit combine to energize the solenoid. If the solenoid is clicking, the circuit that triggers it is working.

Why does my car battery click when I start it?

Loose battery terminals Loose battery terminals on the car battery are another common problem. Someone could cause it by forgetting to tighten these properly after a reparation, and the contact between the connectors and the terminals becomes bad.

What to do when your car clicks when trying to start?

Also, check the connector at the starter and the car battery to make sure the cable connector bolts are tightened and have a good connection. Feel on them after you have been cranking for a while, and make sure they are not warm. If they are warm, there is a bad connection there which needs to be cleaned.

Most of us have had the unfortunate experience of walking out to our car in the morning, turning the key, and all that happens is click, click, click. Your heart sinks a little. You turn the key back and try again, hoping it will start this time. Sometimes, if we’re lucky, it does.

Why does my riding mower click when I turn the key?

If your riding lawn mower engine clicks when you turn the key but won’t turn over, there’s a pretty good chance your mower could have a bad starter solenoid. Other problems, though not as frequent, include a bad starter motor, a wiring failure, a weak battery or a locked-up engine.

Why does my car solenoid make a clicking noise?

When there is not enough power to the starter or the starter has too much resistance the solenoid tries to activate, but can’t and it makes the distinct “clicking” noise. A failing battery or starter will need to be identified and replaced.

Why does my Cub Cadet make a clicking sound?

Loose or corroded connections on the heavy black cables that connect the battery ground circuit to the tractor frame, or damage to the black cable. Inspect these connections, remove corrosion and re-establish good electrical contact.

Author Image
Ruth Doyle