Car not starting just a tick sound?

2000 HOLDEN COMMODORE
355,000 MILES • 3.8L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
2STONEY
  • MEMBER
  • 25 POSTS
I have just got a brand new 750cca battery and also have a secondhand starter motor which I tried and still nothing, also disconnected wires sanded them back and reconnected still nothing. should I replace the alternator next? I have a dk1800 amp and two 400rms subs in it too.
May 8, 2024 at 4:39 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
BORIS K
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 836 POSTS
Hello,

A ticking sound while trying to start an engine is usually caused by bad connections or a discharged battery.

Basic checks are using a voltmeter and check battery state of charge, should read around 12.6V.

How to use a voltmeter:
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

If the battery shows full charge next check the voltage while trying to crank the engine
It should not fall below 9V and once cranking stopped should recover back up to the original reading

Some good reading:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-car-battery-works
and
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/everything-goes-dead-when-engine-is-cranked
and
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-starter-and-solenoid-works

To exclude a bad ground/earth connection you could connect a separate battery jumper lead from the battery negative terminal to the engine.

Once you get the engine started next check the alternator output with and without load.

How to:
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

Hope this helps.

Cheers, Boris
May 8, 2024 at 7:29 PM
Avatar
2STONEY
  • MEMBER
  • 25 POSTS
What if it still won't start to even check alternators output?
May 8, 2024 at 9:52 PM
Avatar
2STONEY
  • MEMBER
  • 25 POSTS
Also, the battery came up 12.5 on meter haven't got second set of hands yet though.
May 9, 2024 at 12:58 PM
Avatar
BORIS K
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 836 POSTS
Hello,

As you have purchased another starter motor you could bench test the original starter motor using a set of jumper leads and the car battery, obviously disconnected from the vehicle. If the old starter is faulty, I would suggest testing the other starter too.

How to:
https://youtu.be/1-PXBjovZDE?si=Ezw7_V9VIYRmnXxP

This should prove if you have a starter issue or a problem with the wiring.

Cheers, Boris

May 9, 2024 at 6:22 PM
Avatar
2STONEY
  • MEMBER
  • 25 POSTS
Okay, cool. I will try that in the morning, would that work for testing alternator too or na?
May 9, 2024 at 9:32 PM
Avatar
BORIS K
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 836 POSTS
Hello,

Follow the below guide to test alternator:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

A good video:
https://youtu.be/Z-p4dMJUpUw?si=lcf7PZU1lpAwcXMt

Cheers, Boris
May 10, 2024 at 2:26 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.