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Turn key to start, get "click"

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Old 04-10-2010 | 05:20 AM
  #1  
swiftscott's Avatar
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Turn key to start, get "click"

This issue started a few weeks ago when I'd try to start my '04 manual and it would just click. Two or three tries and then it would turn over the motor and start.

Last night all it would do is make a light "click" and not turn the motor over. Battery is new and there seem to be no other electrical glitches happening. My work parking lot is downhill, so I bump-started it to get home, but now it's in my garage and won't start.

Any ideas would be appreciated
Old 04-10-2010 | 05:26 AM
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I assume since you "bump start" that this is a manual.
First thing I would check is the starter interlock switch.
It ensures the clutch pedal is down when you attempt to start the car.
You'll see two switches on the clutch pedal... its the one nearest to the firewall.

Couple things you can do to test it:
1) Reach under and hold the switch in while you start the car (no need to press on the pedal and make sure the car isn't in gear).
2) Disconnect the harness and use a single wire to jump the electrical connections so its a closed circuit.
Old 04-10-2010 | 06:53 AM
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Sure sounds like the battery or battery connections. Check and clean battery terminals, make sure the cables are securely fastened to the battery terminals, and check battery voltage. Should be about 12.5 or so with no load. If it is less than that, check alternator output with engine running. Should be about 14+ volts.

If alternator output is within spec, you may have excessive dark current drain, causing the battery to die after a few hours. Check current draw with engine and all accessories off. Should not be more than about 50ma.
Old 04-10-2010 | 06:59 AM
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If the battery is good....try the clutch interlock like Jon said...also the starter solenoid may be shot..

You could try jumping straight to the starter to see if that works....( if you know how...be careful )

that would rule out the clutch switches and the rest of the wiring....
Old 04-10-2010 | 10:25 AM
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ok, clutch switch working properly and all battery connections are clean and secure. BUT my new MAXXSTART battery installed 12/09 is putting out 16.5 volts. Checked it twice with two different testers. Is my battery toast???
Old 04-10-2010 | 08:11 PM
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Originally Posted by swiftscott
ok, clutch switch working properly and all battery connections are clean and secure. BUT my new MAXXSTART battery installed 12/09 is putting out 16.5 volts. Checked it twice with two different testers. Is my battery toast???
Sounds like it.
Old 04-10-2010 | 08:32 PM
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Sounds like the starter is on its way out. Clicking noise is a tell tale sign. Or its your battery. Hope its the latter.
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