My 2000 Z24 cavalier makes just one solid click when I try to start it. Lights and power locks, steering, etc still work. Whats wrong?

Asked by JanineChristine Jan 11, 2013 at 07:30 PM about the 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier Z24 Coupe FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

3 Nights ago it was running perfectly fine, and when I got to my street I put it into neutral so that I could move some cones, and it shut down on me. It freaked out for a day or two (lights would work, then they wouldn't, then the hazards would be working, and then there were repetitive clicks whenever I opened my door, or took the key out(which used to beep when i took the key out of the ignition), etc) It's finally stable right now in the sense that all lights work, and power locks, steering, but when I try to turn the key it makes a resounding "click". I already had the ignition switch replaced a year and a half ago, and the battery seems to be working fine as the lights work.. any suggestion/advice? Also, the check engine light IS on.. but I'm hoping this might be some sort of quirk someone else has come across. Thanks

5 Answers
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tenspeed answered 11 years ago

It sounds like the starter motor seized or there's not enough juice to turn it over. Try removing the battery cables and cleaning the terminals. While the battery is disconnected, the electronics should reset.

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JanineChristine answered 11 years ago

Unfortunately that didn't work. Just tried it now. I also tried switching the a/c and ignition starter relays but it's still not turning over. Actually.. it's not even turning.

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Jamie answered 11 years ago

tap the starter with a hammer while trying to start.. 2ppl needed , if starts replace starter goood luck

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Korf answered 11 years ago

If you have a starter the is just clicking you may still have a battery problem or connection problem. Have you check the battery voltage? Have you check the connection at the starter? And have you tried to turn thr engine with over by hand? This can be done with a socket and ratcheton the front of the motor at the crankshaft. Do you have a after markey alarm?

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underapreciated answered 11 years ago

I had the same thing happen to a 2000 cav and I have cleaned cables and cable connections altenator shows it puts out 15 to 16 volts bkower on heater a/c isnt working and battery was taken in and a load test done checked good checked fuses in hood compartment but finding nothing wrong started car and heard sizzle under car one thing the starter does have a fuseable link that might be bad u might check that... but i am wondering if the altenator has a regulatopr or if the car has a computer to assist fuel

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