Why wont my Chevy Equinox start but clicks?

Most often, the clicking sound when you try to start your Chevy Equinox means there isn’t enough electrical current getting to the starter. A weak or dead battery or loose connections are the typical culprits, but it can also be a failing starter, ignition switch, or anti-theft system preventing cranking.

What the clicking may indicate and why it matters

When you hear a quick or repeated click but the engine doesn’t turn over, it points to an electrical or signaling issue rather than a mechanical failure of the engine itself. Diagnosing the sound pattern helps narrow down whether the problem is the battery, wiring, or the starter, and whether the issue is intermittent or persistent.

Common causes behind the symptom

Below are the frequent reasons a Chevy Equinox might click instead of starting. Understanding these helps you decide what to test first and what you might need to replace.

• Weak or dead battery: Insufficient voltage prevents the starter from drawing enough current to spin the engine. Look for dim lights or a sluggish electrical system.


• Corroded or loose battery terminals or cables: Poor connections cause voltage drops even when the battery is healthy.


• Faulty starter motor or solenoid: A failing starter can cause a single loud click or a series of rapid clicks without cranking.


• Bad ignition switch or ignition/anti-theft (Passlock) system: The starting signal may not reach the starter if the ignition or immobilizer isn’t recognizing the key.


• Blown starter relay or fuse: A failed relay or blown fuse stops current from reaching the starter.


• Electrical parasitic drain or ground problems: Excessive draw or a poor engine ground reduces available current for starting.


• Alternator not charging (in some cases): A battery that isn’t being recharged can go dead quickly after previous use, leading to repeated start attempts failing.


• Transmission in gear or neutral safety switch issue: If the vehicle isn’t recognized as safely in Park/Neutral, the starter won’t engage.

Concluding this section: Start with the simplest checks—battery health and cable connections—and then rule out the starter, fuses, and security system if the problem persists.

Battery health and wiring basics

Because battery and wiring issues are the most common, test the battery voltage with a multimeter, inspect for corrosion, and ensure tight, clean connections. A healthy battery typically shows about 12.6 volts when the car is off and higher when the engine is running (about 13.7–14.7 volts) as the alternator charges the battery.

Starter, relays, and immobilizer considerations

If the battery and connections check out, focus on the starter motor, its solenoid, and related relays. A single loud click often points to a starter/solenoid problem or a relay that isn’t delivering current. An immobilizer or Passlock issue may also prevent cranking even with a good battery, typically indicated by a security light on the dash.

Step-by-step troubleshooting you can perform safely

Before you begin, ensure the vehicle is in Park (automatic) or Neutral (manual) with the parking brake engaged, and never work around live electrical components with the engine running. The following steps help isolate the cause from simplest to more involved.

1. Check battery voltage with the key off. If it’s below about 12.4 volts, charge the battery or test with a load tester. If the reading is healthy, move to the next step.


2. Attempt a jump start with a known-good battery. If the Equinox starts, the issue is likely the battery or charging system.


3. Inspect battery terminals and cables for corrosion, fraying, or looseness. Clean terminals with a baking soda solution and tighten clamps securely.


4. Check the negative ground strap from the battery to the engine block or chassis. A loose or corroded ground can prevent sufficient current delivery.


5. Test or swap the starter relay and check relevant fuses in the fuse/relay box. A faulty relay can mimic a bad starter.


6. Listen for the starting sound: a single click or rapid clicking can indicate a different fault. If you hear no sound, the problem may be the ignition switch or immobilizer.


7. Inspect for Passlock/immobilizer indicators on the dash. If a security light stays lit or flashes, the immobilizer may be preventing crank until reset.


8. Ensure the transmission is fully in Park (automatic) or Neutral and that the shift interlock is functioning. Try starting from Neutral as a test.


9. If you have access to an OBD-II scanner, read any stored codes that point to ignition, charging, or immobilizer issues.

Concluding this section: These steps cover the most common causes and provide a practical path to identifying whether you’re dealing with a battery, starter, or security-system problem. If the car still won’t start after these checks, professional diagnosis is advised.

When to seek professional help

Electrical starting issues can quickly become complex, and some tests require specialized equipment or safe handling. Consider professional help if you cannot reproduce a clear cause or if the problem recurs after initial fixes.

• Persistent clicking with a known-good battery and clean connections.


• Dash security/immobilizer warnings or unusual key fob behavior.


• Trouble codes related to ignition, charging, or immobilizer systems.


• Discomfort performing electrical diagnostics or using diagnostic tools.

Conclusion: A qualified mechanic or dealership can confirm whether the issue is battery-related, starter/solenoid failure, or an immobilizer fault, and they can perform precise testing and replacement as needed.

Summary

In most Chevy Equinox start-and-click cases, the root cause is electrical: a weak or dead battery or poor connections are the common culprits, with the starter/solenoid, ignition switch, or immobilizer as frequent secondary causes. A systematic approach—check battery health, clean/secure connections, test relays and fuses, and assess the immobilizer—usually identifies the fault. When in doubt, seek professional assessment to avoid unnecessary part changes and to ensure safe, reliable starting.

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 but not starting?

A Chevy Equinox that won't start with a clicking noise is most likely experiencing an electrical issue, with a weak or dead battery being the most common cause. Other potential culprits include loose or corroded battery terminals, a faulty starter motor, or a bad starter relay. 
Potential causes and solutions 
This video explains the causes and solutions for a clicking noise when starting a car: 56s8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Sep 10, 2023

• Weak or dead battery: The most frequent cause of a clicking sound is a battery that lacks sufficient power. The starter solenoid is trying to engage, but there isn't enough energy to turn the engine over. 
  • Solution: Try a jump-start. If the car starts after a jump, the battery is likely the problem. Have the battery tested at a parts store to determine if it needs to be replaced, as it may not be holding a charge. 
• Loose or corroded battery terminals: Poor connections at the battery terminals prevent the necessary electrical current from reaching the starter. 
  • Solution: Check the battery terminals. Clean off any corrosion with a wire brush and ensure the clamps are tight. 
• Faulty starter motor: If the battery is good but the car still won't crank, the starter motor itself could be the issue. A single, loud click could indicate a bad starter or relay. 
  • Solution: A mechanic can test the starter to confirm it's the source of the problem. 
• Faulty starter relay or solenoid: The relay or solenoid are electrical switches that control the starter motor. If they fail, they can cause a clicking sound without engaging the starter. 
  • Solution: The relay or solenoid may need to be replaced by a mechanic.
• Dead key fob: In modern Equinox models, a dead key fob can prevent the vehicle from starting. You'll typically see a "No Remote Detected" message on the dash. 
  • Solution: Place the key fob in the designated spot in the car (often a cup holder or center console) and try starting the car again.

This video shows how to start a Chevy Equinox with a dead key fob: 50sLange & Fetter MotorsYouTube · Jun 27, 2024
What to do next

1. Attempt a jump-start: This is the easiest first step and can quickly identify if the issue is a low battery. 
2. Inspect the battery terminals: Make sure they are clean and tightly secured. 
3. Get the battery tested: Take the battery to an auto parts store for a free test if a jump-start works but the problem returns shortly after, or if the car won't start even after a jump. 
4. Consult a professional: If the battery is ruled out, a mechanic can properly diagnose and replace the starter or relay. 

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. 

What would cause a Chevy Equinox not to start?

A Chevy Equinox that won't start is most commonly due to a dead or weak battery, a faulty starter motor, or corroded battery terminals. Other potential causes include a bad alternator, a faulty ignition switch, a clogged fuel filter, or an issue with the anti-theft system. To troubleshoot, start by checking the battery and its connections, then listen for a clicking sound when you try to start the car to help diagnose the starter. 
Immediate checks
This video demonstrates how to check your battery connections and test the battery: 59sFix It FrenchYouTube · Oct 12, 2025

• Battery terminals: Look for corrosion or loose connections at the battery posts. Clean any corrosion and ensure the cables are tight. 
• Battery: If the lights are dim or don't come on, the battery is likely the issue. You can try a jump start. A voltage test should show above 12.4V12.4 cap V12.4𝑉. 
• Listen for a click: If you hear a clicking sound when you turn the key, the battery might have some power, but the starter motor isn't getting enough to crank the engine. This points to a bad starter or starter relay. 

Other common issues

• Alternator: A bad alternator won't charge the battery, so a new battery may eventually die. A failing alternator can be the root cause of a dead battery. 
• Starter motor/relay: This is a frequent culprit, especially if the car clicks or grinds but doesn't turn over. 
• Ignition switch: A faulty ignition switch can prevent power from reaching the starter or other necessary components. 
• Fuel system: If the engine cranks but doesn't start, there may be no spark or fuel. Check for a clogged fuel filter, or a malfunctioning fuel pump. An empty gas tank is also a possibility. 
• Anti-theft system: The immobilizer system can prevent the car from starting if it doesn't recognize the key. 
• Fuses: Check the fuses and relays associated with the starting circuit to ensure they haven't blown. 

This video explains how to troubleshoot a Chevy Equinox that cranks but doesn't start: 1mElectrical Car Repair LIVEYouTube · May 26, 2025