Why is my Dodge Charger clicking but no start?

Most often a weak or dead battery, a failing starter or starter relay, or electrical connection problems cause a single click or rapid clicking when you try to start a Dodge Charger. A malfunctioning alternator or immobilizer/security issue can also prevent cranking. If you’re hearing a click but the engine won’t turn over, you’re not alone; the cause typically sits in the charging, starting, or security systems, or in a transmission/gear position sensor.

What the clicking likely means

The sound of a click (single, double, or rapid) usually indicates the starter solenoid is trying to engage but the engine isn’t turning over. That can point to insufficient current, resistance in the electrical path, or a fault that blocks cranking altogether. Different patterns of clicking can help narrow down the area to check first.

Battery and electrical connections

A battery that’s weak, old, or poorly connected can’t supply the surge the starter needs. Look for corrosion on the terminals, loose cables, or damaged battery leads. Test the battery voltage (12.6V or higher at rest) and consider a load test. Replace the battery if it’s more than 3–5 years old or fails a load test.

Starter motor and solenoid

The starter or its solenoid can wear out or fail, producing a click without turning the engine. The symptom can also include a faint growl or no movement. A professional can test the starter’s current draw and confirm if replacement is needed. In some cases tapping the starter may yield a temporary fix, but that’s not reliable long-term.

Alternator and charging system

If the alternator isn’t charging the battery, the battery can go dead while you’re attempting to start, causing clicking. A voltage test with the engine running (about 13.8–14.8 volts) can confirm charging; abnormal voltage suggests alternator issues or wiring faults.

Security/immobilizer system

Dodge’s keyless entry and immobilizer can prevent crank if the key isn’t detected or there’s a fault in the security system. You may see immobilizer or key-not-detected messages, or a flickering security light. Using the correct key fob, replacing its battery, or having the dealer diagnose immobilizer diagnostics can resolve it.

Neutral safety switch or transmission gear selector

Automatic Chargers require the car to be in Park or Neutral to start. A faulty neutral safety switch or a misread gear position can cause a click or no start. If the car starts in Neutral or if you must wiggle the shift to Park, the switch may be the culprit.

Troubleshooting steps you can safely perform

Use these checks to narrow down the problem. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with any step, contact roadside assistance or a mechanic rather than attempting dangerous procedures.

1. Check battery voltage with a multimeter. A healthy battery reads about 12.6 volts at rest; anything below 12.0 volts when resting suggests a discharged or failing battery.


2. Inspect battery terminals and cables for corrosion, tightness, and damage. Clean corrosion with a baking-soda-and-water paste, rinse, dry, and re-tighten.


3. Check ground connections from the battery to the engine block and to the chassis. A loose or corroded ground can cause weak current to the starter.


4. Inspect fuses and the starter relay in the under-hood fuse/relay box; replace any blown fuse or sticking relay.


5. If you have a push-button start, ensure the key fob is present and recognized; try holding the fob near the start button or trying again with the fob in your pocket.


6. Ensure the transmission is fully in Park (automatic) or Neutral, and check for any dashboard warnings about the immobilizer or security system.


7. If safe, attempt a jump start with a known-good battery or jump pack. If the Charger starts with a jump, the issue is likely battery or charging system; if not, more diagnosis is needed.

Conclusion: If these checks don’t resolve the issue or you continue to hear unusual clicking, have the vehicle diagnosed by a qualified technician. Potential causes include a failing starter, a faulty alternator, a bad starter relay, or immobilizer/wiring problems. Regular maintenance and addressing warning lights promptly can prevent these failures.

When to contact professional help

Persistent starting problems, unusual sounds, or repeated clicking warrant a professional inspection, especially if the immobilizer is implicated or if you’re unsure about safe handling of electrical systems. A dealer or qualified mechanic can perform battery load tests, alternator output tests, starter current draw tests, and immobilizer diagnostics, and check for any relevant Service Bulletins or software updates.

Summary

A Dodge Charger that clicks but won’t start is usually due to a battery/electrical issue, a failing starter or solenoid, a charging system problem, or an immobilizer/security fault. Begin with basic checks of battery health and connections, test voltage, inspect fuses/relays, and verify the gear is in Park/Neutral. If the problem persists, seek professional diagnosis to pinpoint the exact cause and prevent further damage. Regular maintenance—especially battery replacement every few years and keeping terminals clean—helps prevent these starting issues.

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 does my Dodge Charger turn on but not start?

A Dodge Charger that cranks but won't start is likely experiencing an issue with fuel delivery, the ignition system, or sensors like the crankshaft or camshaft position sensor. Other potential causes include a dead battery, blown fuses, or problems with the engine control module (ECM). 
This video explains some common reasons why a Dodge Charger may crank but not start: 58sElectrical Car Repair LIVEYouTube · Dec 19, 2024
Common causes and how to check them
Fuel system

• Fuel pump: A failed fuel pump will prevent the engine from getting the fuel it needs. Listen for a high-pitched whine or humming noise from the fuel tank area when the key is turned to the "on" position. 
• Fuel pump relay: A blown relay can also stop the fuel pump from working. 
• Blown fuses: Check the fuses for the engine management, fuel pump, and fuel injectors. 
• Fuel filter: A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow. 

Ignition system

• Spark plugs and ignition coils: Worn-out or damaged spark plugs or ignition coils can prevent the engine from firing. 
• Blown fuses: Check the fuses for the ignition coils. 

This video shows how to inspect spark plugs for a Dodge Charger: 1mAlex The Car DoctorYouTube · Feb 16, 2021
Sensors

• Crankshaft and camshaft position sensors: A faulty crankshaft or camshaft position sensor can disrupt engine timing, preventing it from starting. A diagnostic scanner can often reveal codes related to these sensors.
• Wiring and connectors: The wiring or connectors for these sensors may be damaged. 

Other potential issues

• Battery: While a dead battery usually prevents cranking altogether, a weak battery can sometimes have enough power to crank the engine slowly without starting it. Have the battery tested to be sure. 
• Engine Control Module (ECM): The ECM controls many of the engine's functions and can cause a no-start condition if it's not working correctly. 
• Blown head gasket: A blown head gasket can allow coolant into the cylinders, which can wet the spark plugs and prevent a start. 

What to do next

1. Check the fuses: This is often the quickest and easiest thing to check. Consult your owner's manual for the location of the fuse boxes and the specific fuses for the fuel and ignition systems. 
2. Use a diagnostic scanner: A scanner can read error codes from the ECM, which can point you directly to the problem, especially with sensors. 
3. Test fuel pressure: If you have a fuel pressure test kit, you can check the fuel pressure at the fuel rail. 
4. Inspect spark plugs and coils: If you have spark and fuel pressure but the engine still won't start, inspect the spark plugs for wetness or damage, and check the ignition coils. 
5. Have the battery tested: Have your battery professionally tested for both its state of charge and its overall health. 

What does it mean if my car is clicking and not starting?

A clicking noise with a car that won't start is usually caused by a weak battery, corroded/loose battery connections, or a faulty starter motor. A rapid clicking sound typically means the battery doesn't have enough power to turn the starter motor, while a single click often points to a problem with the starter or its relay. Less common causes include a failing alternator or other electrical issues. 
This video explains the difference between a rapid clicking sound and a single click: 50sFusion KiddYouTube · Mar 16, 2018
Common causes

• Weak or dead battery: This is the most frequent cause. A battery that lacks sufficient power can cause the starter solenoid to rapidly click as it tries to engage the starter motor but can't draw enough current to crank the engine. 
• Corroded or loose battery connections: Even a healthy battery may not start the car if the connections are loose or covered in corrosion, as this impedes the flow of electricity. 
• Faulty starter motor or solenoid: If you hear a single loud click, it could mean the starter motor itself is failing or the solenoid isn't working properly. 
• Failing alternator: The alternator recharges the battery while the engine is running. If it's not working, the battery will eventually drain, leading to a no-start situation. 
• Other electrical problems: Issues with relays, fuses, or wiring can interrupt the power supply to the starter, also resulting in a clicking sound. 

What to do

1. Check the battery terminals: Make sure the connections are clean and tight. You can try tightening them or cleaning off any corrosion. 
2. Jump-start the car: This is a good way to test if the issue is a weak battery. If the car starts with a jump, the battery is likely the problem. 
3. Check the starter: If the car still won't start after a jump, the starter is a likely culprit. You may need to have it diagnosed and replaced by a mechanic. 

This video shows how to check for a bad battery and how to jump-start a car: 49sFusion KiddYouTube · Nov 19, 2016
When to call a professional

• If you've tried cleaning the terminals and jump-starting the car with no success. 
• If the clicking is a single, loud click, which often points to a faulty starter motor that needs professional diagnosis. 
• If you suspect a more complex electrical issue beyond the battery or starter. 

Why wont my Dodge Charger start but clicks?

A Dodge Charger that only clicks is likely experiencing an electrical problem, most commonly a weak or dead battery, loose or corroded battery terminals, or a faulty starter or starter relay. To diagnose and fix the issue, you can start by checking and cleaning the battery terminals, ensuring the battery is charged, and then inspecting fuses and relays, as some Chargers have the starter relay integrated into the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM). A professional diagnosis is recommended if the simple checks don't resolve the problem. 
Potential causes and solutions
Battery and connections

• Weak or dead battery: A rapid clicking sound often points to a battery that can't supply enough power to turn the starter. Try a jump start, and if that works, have the battery tested and likely replaced. 
• Corroded or loose terminals: The battery clamps might be loose, or the terminals themselves might be corroded, preventing proper current flow. Clean the terminals and tighten the clamps. 
• Bad ground connection: A poor ground connection can cause similar issues. Check your ground straps for any signs of looseness or corrosion. 

Starter and related components

• Faulty starter or solenoid: A single, loud click can indicate a problem with the starter motor or its solenoid, which may be trying to engage but failing. A technician can test this. 
• Starter relay: The starter relay sends power to the starter. A faulty relay will cause the clicking without the starter engaging. 

This video shows how to use a jump start a car with a dead battery: 50sJason GillettYouTube · Aug 25, 2020
Fuses and relays

• Blown fuse: A blown fuse for the starter or ignition system can prevent the car from starting. Check the fuse boxes (under the hood and in the trunk) and visually inspect, but ideally test, fuses like number 4 (starter) and others mentioned in the search results. 
• Faulty TIPM: Many Chrysler vehicles, including the Charger, have a Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) which can fail. The starter relay is often integrated into this module, which can be a common source of starting issues.