Starter just clicks

2006 CHEVROLET HHR
166,500 MILES • 2.2L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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BRADP1226
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I just replaced my rack and pinion. After replacing. All my gauge lights, head lights and tail lights come on as soon as I connect the battery. Starter just clicks. Says check charging system. Lights stay on until battery is drained. Jump starting did not help or get it started. I cannot see any pinched or damaged wires anywhere. It started fine until I did above mentioned work.
Feb 18, 2018 at 4:48 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
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Good morning.

Do you have a voltmeter to check the battery voltage??

A low battery will cause these issues.

Roy
Feb 18, 2018 at 7:34 PM
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BRADP1226
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No. But that is my next move. I know the battery is at least five years old.
Feb 18, 2018 at 7:37 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
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Okay, that is where I would start.

the battery voltage needs to be 12.6 volts.
When you try to start it the voltage should be around 11 volts. Anything below that indicates the battery has failed.

Roy
Feb 18, 2018 at 7:39 PM
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BRADP1226
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Thanks for the input. I am far from a mechanic. But always do my own work.
Electrical system always boggles me.
Feb 18, 2018 at 7:47 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
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You will need a second person with you for this load test.

Roy
Feb 18, 2018 at 7:49 PM
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BRADP1226
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Okay thanks.
Feb 18, 2018 at 7:50 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
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You are welcome. Keep us updated.

Roy
Feb 18, 2018 at 7:53 PM
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BRADP1226
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Will do, I am really looking forward to driving my car versus this old gas guzzling van from work.
Feb 18, 2018 at 7:55 PM
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BRADP1226
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Battery did the trick. Glad it was a simple fix. Especially since I just replaced the rack and pinion, tie rods, linkage and more. Just need to replace the power steering fuse. Thanks for your input. Greatly appreciate it.
Feb 19, 2018 at 8:03 AM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
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Roy is one of our best!

Use 2CarPros anytime, we are here to help. Please tell a friend.

Cheers, Ken
Feb 22, 2018 at 4:29 AM
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