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Why is my Subaru car clicking but not starting?

If your Subaru car is clicking but not starting, it could be due to a variety of issues, such as a dead battery, a problem with the starter, or an issue with the fuel system. In this article, we'll explore the common causes of this problem and provide you with steps to diagnose and fix the issue.


Common Causes of a Clicking Subaru Car That Won't Start


There are several potential reasons why your Subaru car might be clicking but not starting:



  • Dead or Weak Battery: If the battery in your Subaru is dead or weak, it may not have enough power to start the engine, resulting in a clicking sound when you turn the key.

  • Faulty Starter: The starter is responsible for turning the engine over and starting the car. If the starter is malfunctioning, it may produce a clicking sound when you try to start the car.

  • Fuel System Issues: Problems with the fuel pump, fuel lines, or fuel injectors can prevent the engine from starting, leading to a clicking sound.li>
  • Electrical Problems: Issues with the wiring, fuses, or relays in the electrical system can also cause a clicking sound when trying to start the car.


To determine the exact cause of the problem, you'll need to perform some troubleshooting steps.


Troubleshooting a Clicking Subaru Car That Won't Start


Here are the steps you can take to diagnose and fix a Subaru car that's clicking but not starting:



  1. Check the Battery: Use a voltmeter to test the battery's voltage. If the voltage is below 12.6 volts, the battery may need to be recharged or replaced.li>
  2. Test the Starter: If the battery is in good condition, the next step is to check the starter. You can do this by having someone turn the key while you listen for the starter's operation or by using a multimeter to test the starter's electrical connections.

  3. Inspect the Fuel System: Check the fuel pump, fuel lines, and fuel injectors for any issues. You can use a fuel pressure gauge to test the fuel system's pressure.

  4. Check the Electrical System: Inspect the wiring, fuses, and relays in the electrical system for any signs of damage or malfunction.


If you're unable to diagnose and fix the issue yourself, it's best to take your Subaru to a qualified mechanic for further inspection and repair.

Why is my Subaru making a clicking sound?


What happens is- the actuator has plastic gears inside. Over time, then tend to wear out and slide across each other, creating that clicking noise you are hearing. This plays no role what so ever in vehicle performance and reliability.



How do I know if my Subaru starter is bad?


One of the primary signs of a broken starter motor in a Subaru is slow or no cranking when you turn the key in the ignition. If you notice that the engine takes longer than usual to start or fails to start altogether, it could be indicative of a faulty starter motor.



Why is my Subaru cranking but not starting?


Battery Trouble
An engine that cranks, but doesn't start, may have battery issues.



Why is my Subaru clicking and not starting?


You might simply have rust and corrosion at the starters power cable at the starters power supply lug. Single tick is typically a bad starter or solenoid. The multiple clicking is not enough juice for the power motor. An electrically poor connection or worn brushes are the usual cause of multiple clicks.



What does it mean if your engine is clicking?


If you can hear a clicking, ticking, or tapping sound coming from your engine, it could indicate an issue with one of the valves or pistons or that the engine oil is low. It's important to act fast and get a professional mechanic to diagnose the problem and determine what repairs will be necessary.



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


If you're hearing a clicking when attempting to start but the engine doesn't crank then the problem is most likely either the starter or a low battery. If you hear a single click from the engine compartment then the most likely cause would be the starter itself, a rapid clicking is most likely a low battery.



Why is my car not starting but the battery and starter is fine?


When you have a brand-new battery but still can't start the car, the alternator might be the issue. Cold and damp climates may increase wear on an alternator, causing it to fail. Flickering gauges and a burning rubber smell could indicate that the alternator overheated and requires replacement.



Why does my starter click but no crank?


If you hear a clicking noise (but nothing else) when trying to start your car, that means the starter solenoid or relay contacts are operating, but the starter isn't cranking the engine. The click may be a rapid chattering sound or it may just be one or two audible clicks.



Is it safe to drive a car with clicking noise?


If your vehicle is producing such sounds while in motion, it's essential to address the issue promptly. At our service center, we urge you to schedule an appointment for a thorough inspection to prevent any potential complications associated with the clicking noise.



How to tell if a starter is going bad?


Signs of a Bad Starter

  1. Whirring, grinding, or clicking sounds when trying to start your car.
  2. A loud single click while trying to start the vehicle with no engine crank.
  3. The instrument cluster, headlights, and radio work normally, but nothing happens when you turn the key.


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.