Why wont my 2018 Chevy Impala start just clicks?
The quick explanation: a clicking sound when you try to start usually means the starter is being signaled to crank but the electrical system can’t supply enough current. The most common fix is to check the battery and its connections; if those are solid, the problem may lie with the starter, a relay, or the anti-theft system.
To understand what’s happening, it helps to know the typical causes behind a no-start with a click on a 2018 Impala and how to approach diagnosing the issue safely. This article outlines common culprits, practical checks you can perform, and when it’s prudent to seek professional help.
What the symptom typically signals
When you hear a single or repeated clicking while attempting to start, it often signals that the starter is trying to engage but not receiving enough current, or that the starting circuit has a fault. If the headlights dim noticeably when you turn the key or press start, the battery is likely the weak link. If the lights stay bright but you still hear a click, a starter relay, solenoid, or ignition/immobilizer issue could be at play.
Common causes
Several issues commonly produce a no-start with a click on a 2018 Impala. Here is a concise list of the usual suspects.
- Weak or dead battery
- Corroded, loose, or damaged battery terminals and ground connections
- Starter motor or solenoid failure
- Blown fuses or a faulty starter relay
- Immobilizer/anti-theft system not recognizing the key
- Ignition switch or related wiring problems
- Parasitic drain or electronics left on
- Charging system failure (bad alternator or belt) causing the battery to not stay charged
Addressing these issues typically starts with the battery and wiring, then moves to the starter and security system. If the car still won’t start after these checks, professional diagnostics can pinpoint less obvious faults.
How to troubleshoot safely
Follow these steps in order to diagnose and, if possible, resolve the no-start-with-click condition on your Impala. Do not perform tasks that require specialized tools unless you are confident in your abilities.
- Check the battery: look for corrosion, ensure terminals are tight, and measure the voltage with a multimeter. A healthy 12-volt battery should read around 12.6 volts with the engine off.
- Test by attempting a jump-start: if the car starts with a jump, the issue is likely with battery capacity or charging; if not, continue with further checks.
- Inspect the battery ground strap and positive battery cable for damage or loose connections; clean and re-tighten as needed.
- Inspect fuses and relays associated with starting: specifically the starter relay and IG/ignition fuses; replace any blown fuses.
- Verify whether the security/immobilizer indicator is illuminated or flashing; if the system won’t recognize the key, try a different key fob or bring the fob inside the car while attempting to start.
- Listen for the starter’s behavior: a solitary click often points to solenoid engagement with insufficient current, while no sound can indicate a failing starter or a blown relay; avoid tapping the starter aggressively.
- Assess the charging system: after a successful jump or start, with the engine running, measure the alternator output—ideally 13.8–14.5 volts across the battery. If it’s lower, the alternator may be failing.
- If none of the above resolves the issue, or you’re uncomfortable with electrical diagnostics, seek professional help or tow to a shop for a detailed diagnosis including immobilizer and computer-system checks.
Following these steps can often identify the root cause—whether it’s a simple battery issue or a more complex starter/immobilizer fault—and guide you toward the appropriate fix.
Summary
A no-start accompanied by a click on a 2018 Chevy Impala is most commonly due to battery problems or bad connections, but can also involve the starter, relays, parasitic drain, charging system, or immobilizer. Begin with a battery health check and clean/secure all connections; if the problem persists after those basics, move to the starter and security system diagnostics or seek professional help. Quick wins include cleaning terminals, ensuring solid grounds, and testing with a jumper battery to distinguish battery issues from starter/relay faults.
