Q: Vehicle clicking and not starting

asked by on March 16, 2016

Turning the key to start the engine results in a rapid clicking noise, but it doesn't start.

Car is not starting Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

It appears that your Toyota RAV4 is having trouble with either the battery or starter engaging the engine and allowing the car to start. The clicking sound you are hearing may be due to low battery voltage or to a failed starter solenoid. However to be 100% certain of the cause, it may be time to enlist the assistance of a certified mechanic to take a look at your RAV4. They will quickly be able to determine exactly why your Toyota is not starting and determine if it is the starter, battery, or something else entirely. They will also be able to make the necessary repairs to keep your RAV4 starting every time.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Squeaking noise while driving
Hi there. This is possible, especially if the intensity of the noise changes as the weight of the vehicle is shifted from side to side. Wheel bearing failures will generally cause a constant growling noise but you may be in...
Bad gas in car
It is possible that the gas has gone bad. When gas goes bad it can turn into a gooey mess. This will clog up your fuel system and cause you to not have fuel for the engine to run. The...
Brake squeaking
Hi there. More often than not, the squeaky noise on front brakes is causes by metal to metal grinding, as there is typically a small metal groove that let's owners know that the brake pads needs to be replaced. However,...
dash lights not working after bulb replacement
Hey there, thanks for writing in about your 1992 GMC C1500. Make sure you have all the connectors plugged in and that you are getting power and ground to the light circuit. Maybe try to put a few of the...
Flashing check engine light - 2005 Ford Ranger
Hey there. You should probably have another look at your plugs (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/spark-plugs-replacement) and wires (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ignition-cable-spark-plug-wires-replacement) to see if the work was done correctly. Something may not be well connected causing an intermittent misfire. The Check Engine Light comes on steady...
My car's center console has no power
Hello. If your center console and radio unit is no longer working after the battery is disconnected then it may be possible that a fuse (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuse-replacement) has blown. I would check the vehicle's interior fuse box to see if any...
Need to swap engine from 2002 eclipse into 2006 eclipse
The 2002 engine used Head Cast # G6 and Block Cast # 4G64. The 2006 used Head Cast # G69M and Block Cast # 4G69. There are other differences between the two years as well. The principal problem is your...
heater fan wont work
I recommend you request an electrical diagnostic (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/electrical-components-are-not-working-inspection) on the blower motor circuit. It has to be determined if 12 volts is being delivered to the blower motor when the blower motor switch is on, in any or all switch...
When I stop and then start to accelerate the car jumps and lunges and doesn't seem to increase speed as it should.
Hello. Thank you for writing in. Typically vehicles jump and surge (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/engine-is-shaking-pulsating-or-vibrating-inspection) due to spark or fuel issues. The computer is designed to keep the engine running within certain ranges, and when the vehicle doesn't have what it needs, it...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're a Rock Climber
If If you’re a rock climber, you want a vehicle that gets you where you need to go, even if the terrain gets rough. You may be living out of your vehicle at times, so you also want a rig...
How Long Does a Glow Plug Last?
A A diesel engine is a very powerful and complicated piece of machinery. There are a variety of things that have to work together in order for the diesel engine to fire off and run as intended. Just like a...
The Top 5 Selling Cars in Delaware in 2012
Delaware Delaware offers a variety of weather, which means drivers have to be prepared for both the mild and the treacherous. In previous years, the best-selling vehicles have included the Honda Civic, Accord and CR-V, along with the Toyota Camry....