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Why is my 2018 Dodge Charger clicking but wont start?

If your 2018 Dodge Charger is making a clicking sound but won't start, there could be a few potential issues causing the problem. The most common reasons for this symptom include a dead battery, a faulty starter, or an issue with the electrical system. Let's dive into the details to help you diagnose and fix the problem.


Potential Causes of a Clicking Dodge Charger That Won't Start


When you turn the key in the ignition and hear a clicking sound but the engine doesn't start, it's usually an indication of an electrical issue rather than a mechanical one. Here are some of the most likely culprits:



  • Dead or Weak Battery: A battery that is low on charge or has reached the end of its lifespan can cause the clicking sound when you try to start the car. The starter doesn't have enough power to crank the engine.

  • Faulty Starter: The starter is responsible for turning over the engine when you turn the key. If the starter is failing, it may produce a clicking sound instead of fully engaging to start the car.

  • Electrical System Problems: Issues with the wiring, alternator, or other electrical components can prevent the starter from receiving the necessary power to crank the engine, resulting in the clicking sound.


It's important to diagnose the root cause of the problem to determine the best solution. A dead battery may just need a jump-start or replacement, while a faulty starter or electrical system issue will require more in-depth troubleshooting and repair.


Troubleshooting Steps


If your 2018 Dodge Charger is clicking but won't start, here are some steps you can take to identify and fix the problem:



  1. Check the Battery: Use a voltmeter to test the battery's charge. If it's below 12.6 volts, the battery may need to be recharged or replaced.

  2. Test the Starter: Have a mechanic perform a starter test to determine if the starter is the issue. They can check for proper voltage and current draw to diagnose a faulty starter.

  3. Inspect the Electrical System: A mechanic can use a multimeter to check for any issues with the wiring, alternator, or other electrical components that could be preventing the starter from functioning properly.

  4. Consider Other Potential Causes: In some cases, the clicking sound could be caused by a problem with the ignition switch, the neutral safety switch, or even a mechanical issue with the engine itself.


Addressing the root cause of the clicking sound and starting issue in your 2018 Dodge Charger is crucial to getting your vehicle back on the road. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can identify and fix the problem, whether it's a dead battery, a faulty starter, or an electrical system malfunction.

Why is my 2018 Dodge Charger not starting?


The most common reasons a Dodge Charger won't start are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter.



Why wont my car start even with power?


A low battery is the most frequent cause of a car having power but not turning over. Other causes include a bad starter, a bad alternator, or electrical issues. If you hear clicking, whirring, or nothing at all when trying to start your car, you may have a bad starter, malfunctioning alternator, or low battery.



Why does my car have a clicking sound and won't start?


The clicking noise it is making combined with the engine not starting can be caused either by a dead vehicle battery or an issue with a loose, corroded, or damaged battery cable connection at the battery itself. The battery can fail suddenly on its own creating this issue to where it has to be replaced.



Why is my Dodge Charger clicking but not starting?


The “click” you're hearing is the starter solenoid getting power and trying to turn the starter over and failing. Check your connections (make sure one of your battery cables isn't loose / frayed) and your ground connections.



Why starter clicks but won't start?


The good news is: that this could be a simple problem to fix. Usually, a rapid clicking noise indicates that your starter's motor isn't getting enough electrical current to engage – basically, your solenoid is trying to engage but can't make the connection.



How do you know if your Dodge Charger starter is bad?


The Engine Doesn't Turn Over - One of the most apparent signs of a failing starter motor is when you turn the key or press the ignition button, and the engine does not crank. You might hear a clicking sound, indicating the starter motor is receiving power but cannot engage the engine.



Why won't my 2018 Dodge Challenger start just clicks?


The battery is one of the most likely causes of a car that won't start but clicks rapidly. If your car battery is dead, damaged, or old, it may not turn the starter motor enough to get your engine going. But it can provide enough power for the solenoid to generate that clicking you hear.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.