Q: When I try to start the car it clicks with a little white smoke coming out
When i turn the key and try to start the car i get a click not a rapid click and a little smoke
My car has 178000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.
Recommended Services
| Starter Replacement | $169.22 - $1153.49 | Get a Quote |
This is a common sign of a failing starter solenoid. The starter solenoid is located on the starter and has internal electrical contacts that transmit electricity to the starter. When this fails, it may cause a clicking sound and will not allow the starter to engage the flywheel when you turn the key. I would suggest having a professional from YourMechanic come to your home to diagnose your starter.
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
What others are asking
What does it mean if the message center says “Check AWD” or “AWD Off?”
If your Fusion is an all-wheel drive vehicle, you may see a message saying “Check AWD” or “AWD Off” come across the message center in the car. If the warning tells you that the system needs to be checked, it...
Speakers have no sound
Hi there. Since your vehicle is equipped with premium sound, it has a separate amplifier powering the speakers. If this amplifier does not receive a signal to turn on, it will not power your speakers. Also, if your amplifier has...
Car won't move
Besides the MAP sensor code, you may have a transmission major failure or a problem with the shift cable (https://www.yourmechanic.com/parts/automatic-transmission-shift-cable). The shift cable bushings wear out and these vehicles sometimes the cable will pop off of the shift linkage of...
Front windows won't work - 2011 Volkswagen Touareg
Hello. The first step is going to be checking the switch. If your master switch works from the driver door panel for some windows but not others, you will want to check for voltage available at that window's terminal with...
How do I safely clean my car's throttle body?
The best way to clean a throttle body is to use throttle body cleaner with a soft towel to wipe out the carbon deposits on the throttle body. In order to do this, I would recommend having someone help you...
My car jerks when decelerating or cruising in slow speed.
Hey there. This may be a sign of a dirty or failing mass air flow sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/mass-airflow-sensor-replacement). The mass air flow sensor is a unit in the intake system that monitors air intake as it is mixed with fuel prior...
Car slightly shutters when coming to an abrupt stop. Failing master cylinder?
If you are getting a pulsation in the brakes and do not have an ABS or any light on in the dash then this is most likely caused by the front rotors of the brakes are warped. You should have...
Why does my 4 wheel drive, tract light, and engine check light come on all at once?
Hello. The Toyota dealership may be correct because the codes that you have listed are related to the charcoal canister. However further testing should be done to verify that the canister is at fault. The charcoal canister is part of...
is it possible to put crankshaft sensor where canshaft sensir goes, and visa versa?
For the question as to whether or not you can put the camshaft and crankshaft sensors into the wrong orifice, I don't see this being possible. The physical dimensions would be close, but the protrusion of the sensor pickup should...
Related articles
Why Do Diesel Vehicles Emit Black Smoke?
There’s There’s a common misconception among drivers of gasoline engine cars that diesel engines are “dirty,” and that black smoke is emitted from all of them. That’s actually not the case. Take a look at any well-maintained diesel car, and...
2012 Chevrolet Impala vs. 2012 Toyota Camry: Which One Should I Buy?
In the battle for the family vehicle, the 4-door sedan is a strong contender that just continues to be a viable option even with the rise of the crossover SUV and the popularity of passenger vans. These sedans offer a...
Symptoms of Bad or Failing Brake Pads
If your brakes are noisy, the brake pedal is pulsating, or the brakes are responding poorly, you may need to replace the brake pads.
Browse other content
Maintenance
Estimates