Q: Click no start

asked by on June 27, 2017

Car shut off while driving. Now won't start. Just 1 click when turning ignition. Battery and alternator are fine.

My car has 130000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

If you were driving and your engine stopped abruptly then you may have broke a timing chain and engine seized. You will need to first try and jump start the engine to see if it will turn? If you just hear a clunk from the starter and engine will not turn then you will need to see if the engine will turn by hand with a socket wrench on the crankshaft pulley bolt. If it turns in one direction but not the other then you have broken the timing chain and may need a complete motor. I would recommend having a mechanic check it for you to confirm my diagnosis.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Windshield washer nozzles not working
There could be several reasons why they don't work. The most common issue is the nozzles being clogged. The holes in the nozzle are so small that it doesn't take much to clog them. Only using washer fluid or distilled...
Leaking differential liquid in front axle
Hi, thanks for writing in. A torn or broken CV boot (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-cv-boot) will cause differential fluid to leak from the axles without a doubt. If you would like help, consider having an expert automotive technician from YourMechanic come to your...
Battery went low causing car to go into limp mode
There are a few things that can go wrong when the battery dies out like that. One thing you can try is to reset the main computer. Look to a service guide or repair manual for specific instructions on how...
Code p0421
Are there other codes set? This code, by itself, P0421 (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0421-obd-ii-trouble-code-warm-up-catalyst-efficiency-below-threshold-bank-1-by-andrew-quinn) indicates that the engine management system detected the catalytic converter is performing below expected standards. This means the engine is sending contaminants (unburned fuel, oil fumes, etc.) down the...
After replacing the starter, itwon't engage and there is a whining sound.
This suggests that the starter may not be aligned properly. When the key is turned and the starter engages, the small gear on the end of the starter comes out slightly to engage the flywheel to turn the motor over....
Transmission & brake problems
Hi there. From the description you have provided, leads to advising you to find another repair facility. All the work you have had done and the problems your vehicle has, should be covered by the repair shops warranty. The smoking...
2012 vw passat oil pressure light came on checked oil full, still comes on
I believe you may be having a problem with your oil pressure sending unit. This is the part that is responsible for sending a signal to your oil pressure light. If no pressure is sensed by the sending unit, the...
Inspection and emissions
Hi there. It really depends on which US state you live that will dictate what is causing the Dodge Avenger to fail emissions. Some states have a safety inspection along with an emissions test; like Utah for example. Both need...
I have a 2006 Jeep Commander and I just realized something leaking on my passenger side floor board and my car runs hot.
Hi Donna. Thanks for contacting us today. What you are describing is typically caused by a heater core that is damaged or a supply line that has ruptured or has a progressive leak. Either way, this would be a source...

Related articles

P0130 OBD-II Trouble Code: 02 Sensor Circuit Malfunction (Bank I Sensor 1)
P0130 code definition The P0130 code is associated with the bank 1, sensor 1, oxygen sensor. Your vehicle may have anywhere up...
P0063 OBD-II Trouble Code: HO2S Heater Control Circuit Low (Bank 2 Sensor 3)
P0063 P0063 trouble code definition Trouble code P0062 indicates that the heater element used to heat up an oxygen sensor has malfunctioned. To switch on an oxygen sensor either a power or a ground is supplied to the sensor. A...
P0097 OBD-II Trouble Code: Intake Air Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit Low Input
P0097 P0097 code definition Intake Air Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit Low Input What the P0097 code means P0097 is the OBD-II generic code indicating the engine control module (ECM) has determined that the intake air temperature sensor 2 (IAT2) input...