What Causes the Clicking Sound When Starting the Engine?
2 Answers
The causes of abnormal noise when starting the engine are issues with the engine belt or problems in the engine compartment. Below are detailed explanations for the above reasons: Engine Belt Issues: Check the tension of the engine belt. If there is a problem, it is recommended to replace it. Alternatively, if the belt is too dirty, cleaning it with water or lubricating it with a lubricant can eliminate the abnormal noise. Engine Compartment Issues: Open the front cover and carefully inspect for any foreign objects. Blockages caused by foreign objects can lead to vehicle noise, so it is advisable to develop a habit of regularly checking the engine compartment. After the engine starts, the flywheel drives the starter gear to rotate, which may cause abnormal noise. If the noise is only slight, it can be ignored. However, if it is severe, the starter may need to be repaired or replaced.
When I encountered a clicking sound during startup while driving, I felt a bit panicked. But after learning about it, I found out it's commonly caused by insufficient battery charge or aging, where the current isn't enough during ignition, causing the starter motor's electrical switch to repeatedly click. Loose or corroded wiring connections and poor grounding can also lead to similar issues. Especially in cold winter, when battery performance declines, this problem is more likely to occur. It's advisable to use a multimeter to check the voltage. Another possibility is wear on the starter motor gears or faults in the electromagnetic components. It's recommended not to continuously attempt ignition for more than 5 seconds to avoid burning out the starter motor. It's best to visit a repair shop for inspection and maintenance, and maintain regular battery care to prevent such issues.
