Several months ago my Escape stranded me. It wouldn't start. I just got a clicking sound. I tried starting it repeatedly until someone came to get me. My hubby went back later that night to get the car and it started up fine for him. Now, yesterday it did it again. When I try to start it I get lights, radio, windows, etc. but it won't turn over, just clicks. Hubby gave me a jump and it took about 5 min before it would start. I drove it around for 15 min. and stopped at a store. When I went to leave, I got the clicks again. Hubby came and jumped me. It started right up. I drove it for 35 min and then went home. This morning I was once again greeted by clicking.
2006-09-25 08:29:51 · 8 answers · asked by tex_gal_2000 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
There are a couple of things: One: Check your battery connections and make sure they are completely tight. Next check the earth lead (the black or minus one) from the battery to the car body. Make sure it too is tight. If both these issues do not correct the problem, I suggest you need a new battery. Have it checked before you buy one, but I am 99 percent sure that is your problem. By the way, before starting up your car, make sure all your electricals - lights, heater, screen wipers, etc., are switched off.............
2006-09-25 08:36:42 · answer #1 · answered by thomasrobinsonantonio 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Probably 1 of two possible things.
1. Starter Solenoid
2. The Starter
The clicking your hearing is the Starter Solenoid trying to make contact but either the power is not getting past the contacts in the solenoid or the starter itself is dead. The clicking noise indicates that power is getting to the starter solenoid and it is trying to do what it is supposed to do. I would start by just replacing the starter solenoid. It should not be that expensive and it is much easier to get to normally (I don't know where it is specifically in the Escape) than the starter itself.
If that does not work then it is the starter. The starter will cost more but it too is typically easy to replace, two or three wires and two or three bolts. The trick is you have to get under the car to get to it. Do not do this with just your car's jack. If you don't have jack stands take it to someone and have them fix it for you. Or buy jack stands and be safe.
As others are suggesting it could also be the connection to the battery but this is less likely since you are getting the clicking noise. If you didn't even get the clicking noise then I would point more at the battery than the other two components. But again the clicking means that power is getting to the solenoid, so a problem with the battery, while possible, is less probable.
2006-09-25 08:45:17 · answer #2 · answered by John 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Replace the battery ... most car batteries have a life span of 4 to 7 years ... yours is ready to be replaced.... while having the battery replaced, have the charging system checked to be sure it is recharging the battery.....btw a "dead" battery will often have enough juice to power your lights, horn radio etc...most of these items could be powered by a flashlight battery.. they don't require a lot of amperage... but your starter needs at least 200 amps and a strong 12.5 volt reading to even think about cranking over your engine.
2006-09-25 08:39:13 · answer #3 · answered by lowrider 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
1
2017-02-19 14:49:00 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I suggest you have your battery tested. sounds like your not getting enough voltage. It may sound simple but sometimes thats all it may be. And look at it this way if it is the battery you dont have to spend alot on one, a good one.
2006-09-25 08:39:25 · answer #5 · answered by Dani 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your battery connections are corroded. Clean them, or get them cleaned, and tighten down the connectors.
2006-09-25 08:37:06 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
The starter,.bad ground or bad positive connections.
2006-09-25 10:02:07 · answer #7 · answered by alecnaaron 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Probably need a new battery.
2006-09-25 08:39:00 · answer #8 · answered by hfacto 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋