99 Toyota Corolla 4cyl. 170K

1999 TOYOTA COROLLA
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DBINTER
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Car will not start. I have lights, but it is making this loud clicking sound. It sounds to me like something has seized up, like something is trying to turn and getting stuck. The sound is like a metal fan hitting something metal, but I don't thinks it is the fan.
Tried charging battery and jumping, what now?
Nov 12, 2007 at 7:48 AM
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MHPAUTOS
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 31,937 POSTS
Hi there,

Make sure that all power & earth cables are clean and tight, if that's all OK, it is a fair chance that the starter motor is faulty, the click you hear it the starter solenoid engaging, but no current is passing through the cont actors, (common problem) O/Haul the starter motor should fix your fault, With the starter removed check the teeth on the fly wheel, the grinding sound you mentioned my be the Bendix crunching the ring gear, if the teeth look badly worn, this will be quite evident, a ring gear will need to be replaced, to do this the transmission will need to be removed.

Mark (mhpautos)
Nov 14, 2007 at 9:27 PM
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.