My 1999 Ford Crown Victoria won't start . It makes a clicking noise like its trying to start

Question

i was driving my car and the battery indicator started lowering .i made it home and i turned it off and tryed to turn it on but it wouldnt start , i heard the clicking noise. the next day i tryed to start it . it started and i noticed the indicator was real low , i disconnected the battery while the car was running and it shut off . i tryed to start it up and i heard a clicking sound like it was trying to start but couldnt. i had a new alternator put in about 4 months ago . im thinking its the starter but i dont really know . please tell me what u think it is .

Answer 1

repairing autos by guessing what is wrong and can be needlessly  expensive.

Get yourself a moderately priced digital multimeter and learn how to use it. A low cost battery charger  doesn't hurt either.

if the battery is over 3 years old it is time to replace it.

Take a spray can of wd40 and soak the cable ends that go to the battery posts---make sure you get the copper wire going INTO the terminal ends.

These suggestions assume that the new alternator you have on the car is working properly.

Answer 2

Have the alternator checked This is what keeps the battery charged

Answer 3

1st i would check the spark plug

but i think your right

it probably is the starter

plus you should never unplug your battery while the car is still on

it blows out the battery

i suggest you get a new battetry

Answer 4

Dead battery Even though the alternator is new have it checked mos t auto parts stores will do this for free. If the alternator is fine then its most likely the battery. It doesn't hurt to check the cables for corrosion or damage.

Answer 5

It could be the starter, a dead battery, or the alternator is not putting out a good charge.  I would first charge the battery, or replace it with a new one.  If you still get the clicking noise, have the alternator checked.  If the alternator proves to be good, it is probably the starter or the starter solenoid.  All of them are easy to change out, if you have the correct tools.

Answer 6

Take the alternator off and along with the battery go to autozone they will test both for FREE and let you know which of the two if not both are bad.

Wayne

Answer 7

It could be simply a low battery.  Try getting a jump from someone.  If that works, go immediately to some shop that will sell and install a new battery for you.  If it is not the alternator or the battery, it is likely the starter.  The clicking is usually an indication of a low charge on your battery however.