What Causes a Corolla to Fail to Start and Make a Clicking Sound?

[EmilioFitz]

Reasons why a Corolla fails to start and makes a clicking sound: 1. Low battery voltage: Turn on the headlights and some electrical devices to check if the dashboard and interior lighting dim during the startup process. If they do, it indicates insufficient battery voltage. 2. Excessive carbon buildup in the intake manifold: Too much carbon buildup on the throttle body or idle control valve can prevent the engine from achieving the required air-fuel ratio, causing the vehicle to fail to start. The repeated engagement of the solenoid and starter relay produces the clicking sound. 3. Insufficient fuel supply: This issue is similar to excessive carbon buildup in the intake manifold, as it also prevents the engine from achieving the necessary air-fuel ratio, leading to startup failure. 4. Faulty starter motor or related wiring: If the solenoid coil cannot maintain engagement, it fails to provide starting torque, resulting in the engine's inability to start and the clicking sound. 5. Ignition system failure: This directly prevents the engine from starting. If the ignition key remains in the start position, the repeated engagement of the starter relay can also produce a clicking sound.