Why wont my Dodge Charger start clicking noise?

A frequent clicking sound when you try to start your Dodge Charger usually points to an electrical issue rather than a seized engine. The most common causes are a weak or dead battery, bad or corroded cables or connections, a failing starter or solenoid, or problems in the charging/immobilizer system. This article breaks down the possibilities and provides practical steps to diagnose and address the problem.

What the clicking noise can indicate

Below are the most common reasons a Charger might emit a clicking sound when starting. Recognizing these patterns helps you decide where to begin the troubleshooting process.

• Dead or severely discharged battery


• Loose, dirty, or corroded battery terminals or cables


• Failing starter motor or faulty solenoid


• Faulty ignition switch, starter relay, or a blown related fuse


• Charging system problems (bad alternator or wiring) that aren’t replenishing the battery


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• Security/immobilizer system preventing the engine from cranking


• Automatic transmission not in Park/Neutral or manual clutch not engaged

In many cases, a rapid, repetitive clicking points to insufficient current reaching the starter, while a single hard click often signals a starter or solenoid issue. Other electrical faults can also mimic these symptoms, so a systematic check is worthwhile.

Step-by-step diagnostic guide

Use this sequence to isolate the cause efficiently. Start with the easiest, least expensive checks and move toward more involved tests if the problem persists.

1. Observe the click pattern: note whether it is a rapid series of clicks or one loud click, and whether any dash lights illuminate.


2. Inspect the battery: look for signs of weakness (dim lights, slow crank) and check the voltage with a multimeter. A healthy resting battery should read around 12.6 volts; below 12.0 volts typically indicates a discharged or failing battery.


3. Check battery terminals and cables: ensure terminals are tight, clean, and free of corrosion. Replace or clean corroded terminals and reseat clamps firmly.


4. Attempt a jump start or battery recharge: if the car starts with a jump, the battery or its connections are likely at fault; if not, move to other components.


5. Listen for the starter/solenoid behavior: if you hear a strong click but the engine doesn’t crank, the starter/solenoid may be failing or the engine may be immobilized.


6. Inspect fuses and relays related to starting: look for blown fuses or a faulty starter relay; replace if needed.


7. Check engine grounding and wiring: a compromised ground strap or damaged wiring can prevent current flow to the starter.


8. Test the immobilizer/key system: try a spare key if available; a faulty or weakened key fob or immobilizer can block cranking.


9. Verify transmission position: ensure the car is in Park (automatic) or Neutral; starting in gear can prevent cranking.


10. Consider a professional scan: use an OBD-II scanner to look for codes related to starting circuits, the immobilizer, or the charging system.

If you’ve worked through these steps and the Charger still won’t start, it’s time to seek professional help. A mechanic can perform more advanced tests on the starter, alternator, wiring, and security system.

Other considerations that can cause a no-start with a click

These factors can complicate or mimic the symptom, so don’t overlook them during diagnosis.

• Immobilizer or key fob battery failure blocking crank authorization


• Ignition switch or starter relay faults not caught by simple inspection


• Blown starting circuit fuse or a failing fusible link

eak or damaged engine ground connections

• Wear or failure of the starter motor itself

Because immobilizer and wiring issues can be more challenging to diagnose, a professional assessment is often the most reliable course if basic checks don’t reveal a clear cause.

When to seek professional help

Consider calling a mechanic or roadside assistance if you notice any of the following, or if you’re uncertain about performing electrical tests yourself.

Symptoms that warrant professional inspection

Persistent clicking with no engine turnover after basic checks, unusual burning smells, smoke, or repeated fuse blows are signs that require expert evaluation.

What to tell the technician

Describe the click pattern, dash light behavior, battery condition, whether a jump start helped, and any recent work or changes to the vehicle’s electrical system.

Prevention tips to avoid future starting issues

These practices help reduce the chance of a no-start with a click in the future.

• Test and maintain the battery regularly, especially before winter or long trips


• Keep battery terminals clean and tight; apply anti-corrosion protectant as needed


• Inspect and replace failing starter or solenoid components before they fail completely


• Ensure the alternator is charging correctly; check belt condition and electrical connections


• Maintain a solid engine ground connection


• Use a spare key periodically to ensure the immobilizer works with your primary key

Regular maintenance and prompt attention to electrical symptoms can prevent many start-related issues from becoming roadside emergencies.

Summary

A clicking start in a Dodge Charger is almost always electrical in origin—most commonly a weak or dead battery, poor connections, or a failing starter/solenoid—and can also involve the charging system or security features. By systematically checking the battery, cables, fuses, relays, and starter, and by confirming proper gear engagement and immobilizer status, you can identify the likely cause. If basic checks don’t resolve the issue, professional diagnosis is advised to avoid improper repairs and ensure safe operation.

Why is my Dodge Charger making a ticking noise?

A ticking noise from a Dodge Charger can be caused by internal engine components like rocker arms and lifters, exhaust leaks, or fuel injectors. Other possible sources include issues with the constant velocity (CV) joints or a loose heat shield. 
Engine-related causes 
This video demonstrates the common causes of ticking noises in Dodge/Chrysler engines, including worn rocker arms and lubrication issues: 56sMarspeedYouTube · May 9, 2016

• Rocker arms and lifters: This is a very common issue, especially on Pentastar V6 and Hemi V8 engines. A worn or broken rocker arm, or a lifter that isn't holding oil pressure, can create a distinct ticking sound. 
  • Symptoms: Ticking that may increase with acceleration. 
  • Fix: This often requires replacing the rocker arm assembly and potentially the camshaft, which can be a significant repair. 
• Exhaust leak: A leak in the exhaust manifold or a loose heat shield can also produce a ticking sound, particularly when the engine is cold. 
• Fuel injectors: Fuel injectors naturally make a clicking or ticking sound, but a failing injector can become louder. 

Other possible causes

• CV joints: If the ticking noise occurs when turning, it could be a sign of worn-out CV joints, especially on models with performance brakes. 
• Low oil pressure: Insufficient engine oil or poor lubrication can cause the valve train to tick. 
  • Fix: The first step should always be to check your oil level and change the oil if it is dirty. 
• Body/frame: Sometimes, a ticking sound from the A-pillar area or a loose component in the body can be misinterpreted as an engine noise. 

How to diagnose and what to do
This video explains how to check for sludge, a common cause of ticking noises in Chrysler/Dodge engines: 1mOnline Mechanic TipsYouTube · Oct 1, 2024

1. Check the oil: Make sure the oil level is full and the oil is clean. Low or dirty oil is a common cause of ticking. 
2. Listen for the source: Pay attention to when the noise occurs—is it on startup, when turning, or during acceleration? This can help narrow down the cause. 
3. Consult a professional: Given the variety of potential causes, it is best to have a mechanic diagnose the issue. A professional can perform a compression test or inspect the valve train to confirm the diagnosis. 

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. 

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. 

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.