Why is my Chevy Equinox clicking but not starting?

The short answer: most often it’s a battery, starter, or electrical connection problem. In many cases a simple recharge or cleaning of connections fixes the issue.

In more detail, when you turn the key or press the start button and hear a click but the engine won’t turn over, the cause is usually electrical rather than a seized engine. Common culprits include a weak or dead battery, corroded or loose terminals, a faulty starter or solenoid, a failing alternator, ignition or starter relay faults, or a security/immobilizer system preventing cranking. This article walks through the likely causes and practical steps to diagnose and address them for a Chevy Equinox.

Common causes of a clicking but not starting

Below are the most frequent culprits that produce a single or repeated clicking sound when attempting to start the Equinox.

• Weak or dead battery (placed under load, it cannot supply enough current to crank the engine).



• Faulty starter motor or solenoid (the solenoid clicks, but the starter doesn’t engage).


• Failing alternator that doesn’t recharge the battery while the engine is running, leading to a drained battery.


• Ignition switch or starter relay failure in the starting circuit.


• Security/immobilizer system preventing normal cranking (key fob issues or immobilizer fault).


• Blown fuses or faulty wiring in the starting circuit.

Addressing these common causes typically involves testing and charging the battery, cleaning and tightening terminals, inspecting the starter and its connections, and verifying fuses and relays in the starting circuit.

Distinguishing between battery, starter, and immobilizer issues

Noting the pattern of the click can help narrow down the problem. A single firm click often points to a starter solenoid or a weak battery, while rapid clicking can indicate a severely discharged battery or a poor electrical connection. If the engine never cranks at all and dashboard lights are dim, the battery or main fuse/relay is more likely the culprit. If the engine cranks slowly and stalls, the battery or alternator health may be in question.

Do-it-yourself diagnostic steps you can perform safely

Try these steps to identify the likely cause before calling for help. Safety first: work on a vehicle on level ground, with parking brake engaged, and avoid sparks near the battery.

1. Check the battery voltage with a multimeter. A healthy, fully charged battery should read about 12.6 volts when the car is off. If it’s under 12.4 volts, charge or test the battery.


2. Inspect battery terminals and clamps for corrosion, crust, or looseness. Clean terminals and retighten clamps if needed.


3. Attempt a jump-start with another vehicle or a portable jump starter. If the Equinox starts with a boost, the battery or charging system is suspect.


4. Check the dashboard for warning lights (battery, check engine, or immobilizer). An immobilizer light can indicate a key/anti-theft issue.


5. Inspect fuses and relays related to the starting circuit in the engine bay fuse box and the passenger compartment fuse box. Replace any blown fuses.


6. Listen to the click pattern: a single click typically points to the starter/solenoid or a weak battery, while repeated rapid clicks usually indicate insufficient cranking current.


7. If you can access the starter, inspect wiring to the starter and the ground strap for damage or looseness (do not tug on wiring aggressively; disconnect the battery before handling electrical components).

If these steps don’t restore starting, the issue could be a failing starter motor/solenoid, a bad alternator, a more complex electrical fault, or an immobilizer problem. A professional diagnostic can verify components with specialized equipment and safely address electrical system faults.

When to seek professional help

Bring the vehicle to a shop if you

• continue to hear clicking after testing the battery and connections,


• have a battery that won’t hold a charge despite charging,


• notice a persistent immobilizer or key recognition issue,


• observe dim dash lighting or consistent charging system faults,


• experience repeated starter or electrical relay failures during multiple start attempts.

Professional technicians can perform a comprehensive battery and alternator load test, inspect the starter and solenoid, diagnose immobilizer-related failures, and check for hidden wiring faults that could cause intermittent starting problems in modern Equinox models.

Summary

A clicking but not starting Chevy Equinox is most often caused by the battery, its connections, or the starting system (starter/solenoid or related relay/fuse). Begin with a battery check and terminal cleaning, then test by jump-starting, inspect for immobilizer issues, and verify fuses/relays. If simple fixes don’t resolve the problem, a professional diagnostic can identify deeper electrical or mechanical faults and prevent further damage.

Why does my Chevy click but won't start?

Why does my Chevy click but not start? A clicking sound but no start usually points to a weak or dead battery. The clicking noise comes from the starter solenoid trying to engage, but without enough power. It could also indicate a faulty starter motor or a poor connection in the battery cables.

Why is my Chevy Equinox clicking when I try to start?

A Chevy Equinox clicking when trying to start is most often caused by a weak or dead battery, but could also be a faulty starter, bad electrical connections, or a failing alternator. Start by checking for loose or corroded battery terminals and consider a jump-start; if it starts after a jump, the battery is likely the issue. If the problem persists, the issue could be the starter or its relay, requiring further diagnosis by a mechanic. 
This video explains the common sounds a car makes when it won't start: 56sBudget MechanicYouTube · Mar 15, 2024
Common causes and solutions

• Dead or weak battery: A dead battery is the most frequent cause of rapid clicking because it doesn't have enough power to turn the starter motor. 
  • Solution: Try jump-starting the vehicle. If it starts, the battery is likely the problem and needs to be replaced. 
• Loose or corroded battery terminals: Poor connections can prevent the necessary electrical current from reaching the starter, causing a clicking sound. 
  • Solution: Visually inspect the battery terminals. Clean any corrosion from the terminals and the cable clamps, and ensure they are securely tightened. 
• Faulty starter motor or solenoid: If the battery has enough power, the clicking could be from a failing starter motor or its solenoid, which is a component that engages the starter. 
  • Solution: If the battery is good and the terminals are clean, the starter may need to be replaced. You can have a mechanic test the starter for you. 
• Faulty starter relay: A bad relay switch can prevent power from reaching the starter. The clicking might be the relay trying to engage but failing. 
  • Solution: A mechanic can test the relay. Sometimes, a faulty relay can be the culprit even if the battery and starter are in good condition. 
• Failing alternator: The alternator charges the battery while the engine is running. If it's not working correctly, the battery may not stay charged, leading to starting issues. 
  • Solution: Have the alternator tested by a mechanic. If the battery is fine after a jump-start but the car dies shortly after, the alternator is a likely cause. 

This video shows what to do if your Chevy Equinox won't start and makes a clicking noise: 1mG Auto RepairYouTube · Mar 10, 2022
How to troubleshoot

1. Check the battery terminals: Look for any corrosion or looseness. Clean them and tighten the clamps. 
2. Attempt to jump-start: If the car starts after a jump, the battery is likely the issue. Drive it to an auto parts store to have it tested, as it may need a new one. 
3. Listen to the clicking: Is it rapid and chattering, or a single click? Rapid clicking often points to a battery or connection issue, while a single, loud click can sometimes indicate a problem with the starter itself. 
4. Listen for other sounds: If you hear a single click, try a jump-start. If the clicking is followed by a grinding sound, this could be a starter issue. 
5. Consult a professional: If the simple fixes don't work, it's best to have a certified mechanic diagnose the problem, as it could be a more complex electrical or mechanical issue. 

This video demonstrates how to check your battery and connections: 50s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Sep 10, 2023

Why does my car click but not start but has power?

A car that has power but makes a clicking sound when you try to start it is experiencing an electrical issue, most commonly a weak or dead battery, a bad starter motor, or corroded/loose battery terminals. Less frequent causes include a faulty alternator, a blown fuse, a bad relay, or problems with the ignition switch. 
This video explains why a car with a bad starter won't start and how to check for it: 1mMercie J Auto Care, llcYouTube · Oct 14, 2023
Common causes

• Weak or dead battery: A battery may have enough power for the lights and radio but not enough to turn the starter motor, which causes a rapid clicking sound. 
• Bad starter motor: A single, loud click can indicate the starter motor is failing. 
• Corroded or loose battery terminals: Poor connections prevent a sufficient flow of power from the battery to the starter, resulting in a click. 
• Faulty alternator: If the alternator isn't charging the battery, the battery will eventually lose its charge, leading to starting problems. 

How to diagnose the problem

• Listen to the click: A rapid, chattering click usually points to a dead battery, while a single, solid click often indicates a problem with the starter. 
• Check the battery: Get the battery tested for free at an auto parts store, as this is the most common issue. 
• Inspect battery terminals: Make sure the terminals are clean and tight. You can clean them with a wire brush or sandpaper. 
• Try a jump-start: If the car starts with a jump, the battery was the issue, or the connections were poor. If it still doesn't start after a proper jump-start, the problem is likely the starter or alternator. 

Next steps

• If you suspect a weak battery, try to jump-start it. If it starts, have the battery tested and consider replacing it. 
• If jump-starting doesn't work, you may have a bad starter, alternator, or a more complex electrical issue. 
• In many cases, it's best to have a professional mechanic diagnose the problem, especially if you're unsure, as a tow to a repair shop may be necessary. 

How to tell if it's a dead battery or starter?

A dead battery typically causes slow cranking and dim lights, while a bad starter usually makes a clicking or grinding noise but won't crank the engine, even if the lights are bright. To diagnose, check the lights and sounds: if they are dim or non-existent, it's likely the battery; if the lights are bright but there's only clicking, it's more likely the starter.
 
This video explains how to tell the difference between a dead battery and a bad starter: 56sShop OwnerYouTube · Jul 29, 2024
Battery symptoms

• Slow or no cranking: The engine turns over slowly, or not at all. 
• Dim lights: Headlights and dashboard lights are noticeably dim or flicker. 
• No power: You might have no electrical power at all when you turn the key. 
• Slow start in cold weather: The car has trouble starting, especially when it's cold. 

Starter symptoms

• Clicking sound: A single, loud click or rapid clicking is heard when you turn the key. 
• Bright lights: The dashboard lights and headlights stay bright, indicating the battery has power. 
• No crank: The engine does not turn over at all. 
• Grinding sound: You may hear a grinding noise, which can indicate a problem with the starter motor. 

This video demonstrates the sound of a car with a bad starter: 52sBudget MechanicYouTube · Sep 24, 2018
How to perform a simple test

1. Check your lights: Turn the key to the "on" position and turn on your headlights. If they are bright, your battery is likely good. If they are dim, your battery is likely weak or dead. 
2. Listen to the start attempt: If the lights are bright, have someone turn the key to the "start" position. Listen for a single, loud click or a series of rapid clicks. This is a strong sign of a bad starter. 
3. Jump-start the car: If you have a good battery or jumper cables, try jump-starting the car. If it starts immediately, your battery was the issue. If it still won't start or only cranks weakly, the starter is the more likely problem.