Starting problem

Tiny
D ROCH
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 MITSUBISHI MAGNA
  • 3.0L
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 150,000 MILES
Hi problem has just started, turn key and only hear click noise if I continue doing so it will eventually start after several clicks
Wednesday, November 15th, 2017 AT 5:12 PM

2 Replies

Tiny
HARRY P
  • MECHANIC
  • 2,292 POSTS
This is not a US market car, so I do not have access to specific information on it. Your problem is somewhat common though. Usually, it is caused by a bad starter solenoid switch (part of the starter). That switch has two jobs. The first is to kick out a flywheel. The second part spins that flywheel, which turns the engine over as well. You are hearing the first part (the flywheel kicking out), but that is it.

The first thing to do would be to completely check your battery cables and terminals. If they are slightly loose, tighten them. Make sure the cables are good and tight on both ends (the battery posts and on the other ends). If you see any greenish/whitish gunk building up on the cables or terminals, take them off and thoroughly clean them. Use either a pipe cleaner, or a piece of sandpaper, or something else rough). Then reconnect and re-tighten the cables.

If, after doing all of that, your problem still is not fixed, you will need to take your starter off and have it tested. In the US, the local auto parts stores can do that for free. I do not know about your area though.

So check that, and let us know what you find.
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Wednesday, November 15th, 2017 AT 7:10 PM
Tiny
STEVE W.
  • MECHANIC
  • 13,573 POSTS
Also, have the battery tested as a failing battery can act this way.
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Thursday, November 16th, 2017 AT 8:35 AM

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