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2020 Durango GT - No Start, just clicking sound

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Sarah K. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:38 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Dodge Durango GT

My 2020 Dodge Durango GT, with about 45,000 miles, suddenly won't start this morning. When I turn the key, all I hear is a rapid clicking sound from under the hood, and the dash lights flicker. The radio and interior lights seem to work, though they dim when I try to start it.

I tried jumping it with another car, and it still just clicks. I even checked the battery terminals, and they seem clean and tight. I'm really stumped because it was running perfectly fine yesterday. Could this be more than just a dead battery, even though it's acting like one?

Any ideas on what else I should check or what might be going on? I'm hoping it's not something major.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:38 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

The rapid clicking sound combined with flickering lights and a no-start condition, even after attempting a jump start, strongly suggests a few common issues for your 2020 Dodge Durango GT.

Here's what could be happening:

  1. Severely Discharged or Faulty Battery: Even if interior lights work, the battery might not have enough cold cranking amps (CCA) to turn over the engine. A jump start might not work if the donor vehicle's cables aren't thick enough, or if your battery is internally shorted and can't accept a charge. The dimming lights indicate a significant power draw that the battery can't sustain.
  2. Corroded or Loose Battery Terminals/Cables: While you checked them, sometimes corrosion can be hidden or a terminal might feel tight but not have good electrical contact. Even a small amount of resistance can prevent the high current needed for starting.
  3. Faulty Starter Motor: If the battery and connections are confirmed good, the starter motor itself could be failing. The clicking sound might be the starter solenoid engaging, but the motor itself isn't spinning. This is less common on a 2020 model but not impossible.
  4. Bad Ground Connection: A poor ground connection between the battery, engine, and chassis can mimic a dead battery or bad starter.

When to see a shop:

  • Professional Battery Test: The first step is to have your battery professionally tested. Most auto parts stores offer this for free. They can determine if it's just discharged or if it needs replacement.
  • Starter System Diagnosis: If the battery tests good, a shop can perform a more thorough diagnosis of the starting system, including testing the starter motor, solenoid, and all associated wiring and ground connections. They have specialized tools to check voltage drops under load.
  • Electrical System Check: If the issue persists after battery and starter checks, there might be a parasitic draw or another electrical fault that a qualified technician can pinpoint.
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