- Bad Starter Relay: The starter relay might be stuck making the starter motor receive intermittent electrical supply leading to the clicking noise. To troubleshoot, try bridging the terminals of the starter solenoid with a screwdriver. If the engine cranks, the starter solenoid is bad and needs replacement.
- Bad Starter Motor: If the starter solenoid is working correctly, use a test light to check for electricity at the starter terminal (large wire to the starter). When the key is turned to the start position, there should be power there - if there isn't check fuses that supply the starter and the ignition switch
- Bad Ignition Switch: If there's electricity to the starter terminal but the engine still won't crank, the ignition switch could be faulty. Try moving the key in and out of the ignition while holding it in the start position to see if the starter will crank.
- Bad Battery Connections: Ensure the battery terminals are clean and tight. Loose or corroded connections can cause the starter to just click because the voltage is too low.
- Damaged Flywheel: If the starter motor is functioning correctly, the next component to inspect would be the flywheel that the starter motor engages. If the flywheel has missing or damaged teeth the flywheel will not be able to engage leading to the starter making a clicking noise.
If you're not comfortable troubleshooting the starting system yourself, it's best to take the vehicle to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair.
