What Causes the Clicking Sound in a Motorcycle Relay?
4 Answers
Motorcycle relay clicking sounds are caused by loose motor screws, burnt starter motor coils, or a depleted battery. Loose motor screws: This leads to poor contact of the relay's main contacts or increased resistance due to aging, resulting in abnormal sounds from the motorcycle relay. Burnt starter motor coils: A broken relay coil or a jammed starter clutch can cause the relay to produce clicking sounds. Depleted motorcycle battery: This can also cause the relay to click. In such cases, it's advisable to measure the voltage with a multimeter.
When my motorcycle relay makes a clicking sound, it's usually due to insufficient battery power or the relay itself aging, causing the relay to repeatedly attempt to engage but then disconnect. I've encountered this issue multiple times while riding, especially on cold mornings when starting is difficult. That continuous clicking sound can make the entire ride uncomfortable and may even leave you stranded on the road due to failure to ignite. In such cases, it's best to immediately check if the battery is low on charge or if the relay contacts have carbon buildup or wear. Don't ignore it, as it not only affects riding safety but could also lead to more expensive repairs, such as replacing the entire ignition system. Remember to perform regular maintenance and keep the battery fully charged to minimize such troubles.
As a DIY enthusiast who frequently tinkers with motorcycles, I've noticed that the primary causes of relay clicking are insufficient circuit voltage or internal relay issues, such as poor contact between the points or coil failure, which prevent it from stabilizing the current flow. Every time I hear that sound, I immediately grab a multimeter to test the battery voltage—ideally, it should be above 12 volts; anything lower can easily trigger the clicking. Additionally, it's crucial to check for loose or corroded wiring terminals. Things you can do yourself include cleaning the contacts or replacing the relay, but if the situation is complex, it's best to consult a professional mechanic. While this issue may seem minor, it's related to the reliability of the starting system. Ignoring it could lead to burning out other components and spoiling the joy of riding.
As a novice rider like me, I was once troubled by the relay's clicking sound. Simply put, it's a circuit issue, commonly caused by a low battery or a damaged relay. The sound, persistent like a timer, indicates the motorcycle cannot start normally. When encountering this, don't force it as it may damage more components. It's recommended to safely pull over and inspect or call for repair services promptly. Develop good habits, such as turning off unnecessary electrical devices after shutting down the engine to reduce battery drain. Safety first—address issues early to prevent roadside breakdowns.
