Some times when I go to start my car all I get is a click?

DOPUSDREW

MEMBER
2002 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
74,000 MILES

Some times when I go to start my car all I get is a click. I then have to jump it to start the engine. I have replaced the Battery and checked all the connections. This time it clicked for the first try and then every try after that nothing. All the lights on the dash are lit up except the Battery light. Also the transmission selection on the dash is reversed with a black background and white letters and numbers versus it's usual white background with black letters and numbers. I have taken it into shops where nobody has been able to figure the issue here. If anyone has any clue as to what the problem is please help, I would greatly appreciate it.

1 Reply

SQM

MECHANIC
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

It sounds like you might have an issue with the starter.
The clicking noise is made the starter solenoid.
It probably has corrosion inside and that's why it works intermittently.
It could also be a connection issue to the solenoid. If the wire is lose or corroded it can have similar issues.
First check the starter and verify everything is connected securely. You can also test the starter by attaching 12V power source to see if it spins. You want to do that when it is off the vehicle.

You might find these articles helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-starter-motor

As for the display of the drive selector. It sounds like the LCD display is gone bad.
But it should not impact any other function.

I have attached diagrams for your reference.

Please let me know of any questions.

Thank you.

Images (Click to make bigger)