Expert: Sean Halliday - 7/12/2008

Question
QUESTION: There has been a bit of funkiness in the sound of the starting the last month or so. Sometimes did not seem as though it would have the power to turn the motor over.

Today I went out and tried to start it and all I got was a click (only one) every time I turned the ignition key. I checked the charge on the battery and it seemed to be normal. This battery is at the end of its life so I had my wife try to start it while I had a volt meter on the battery terminals. When the ignition was engaged (and getting the one click) there was no dip no movement in the voltage at all. Would this be a starter problem requiring a replacement or should something else be looked at before I do that?

ANSWER: The battery sounds like it is done.Take the battery to the parts store and have them do a load test.This will determine if it has a dead cell or  cells.I would test the battery before doing anything to the starter.The volts will not change as it is amps which will drop when you turn the key so your test will tell you nothing.If you get the engine running,using your meter test the alternator charge which should be approx,,,13.5 to 14v for a good charge.Try a new battery,let me know if you still have problems.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks very much for your response. I wanted to mention in my initial question and  forgot to, that I also tried to start it by hooking up jumper cables from another car. Same result. I also put in a new starter solenoid. That made no change...still one "click" one turn of the key.  

Answer
If the battery is good and the alternator is good,then the last link is your starter motor.You replaced the solenoid so its got to be the starter itself.Check all cables for good connections also.Lastly,remove the starter to have it tested before you buy a new one.