My starter is not working?

2014 TOYOTA COROLLA
60,000 MILES • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
TSDOUGHERTY1205
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Hi there, My car listed above hasn't been starting on its own for almost two months now. I've taken it to the dealership twice, and each time they've run tests on the battery and the alternator, saying that it never fails the tests. But even after bringing it in a second time, it still will not start. When I turn the key in the ignition, it makes a repeated clicking noise. Any idea if this could be a computer system issue, or something other than the battery or alternator? I just had the battery replaced less than 2 years ago. Thank you so much for your help!
Mar 29, 2021 at 9:10 AM
Advertisement
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.
Avatar
KASEKENNY
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 18,907 POSTS
If the starter is making this clicking noise then it is most likely one of two things. Either the battery is drained and not able to power the starter or the starter itself is failing. Here is a guide that will help with this:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

If the battery passes a load test as shown below then I would replace the starter as it is most likely failing.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-load-test

Below is the process from the manual on how to replace the starter if this checks out. Let us know if you have questions and we can go from there. Thanks
Images (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Attached Media
Jun 25, 2021 at 5:02 PM
Avatar
TSDOUGHERTY1205
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Thanks so much!! I’ve returned it to the dealership and asked for a different team to look it over. At least if they tell me “there’s nothing wrong with it” a third(!) time I can refer to your info. Thanks again!
Jun 25, 2021 at 5:02 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
KASEKENNY
  • AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 18,907 POSTS
Great idea. Thanks for the update. Please let us know what they find. Thanks
Jun 25, 2021 at 5:02 PM