2023 GV70 Won't Start - No Crank, No Codes, Just Clicking

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:34 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2023 Genesis GV70 2.5T

Hi everyone,

I'm having a really frustrating issue with my 2023 Genesis GV70 2.5T. This morning, I went to start it, and all I got was a rapid clicking sound from under the hood. No crank, no engine turning over, just click, click, click. All the dash lights come on, the infotainment system works, and the headlights seem bright.

I tried jumping it with another car, let it sit for about 15 minutes, and still the same rapid clicking. I don't have an OBD-II code reader, but there's no check engine light or any other warning lights besides the usual ones that come on when you turn the ignition.

Could this be a bad battery even though the lights are bright? Or something else entirely? It's pretty new, only about 15,000 miles. Any ideas on what to check or what might be going on?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A rapid clicking sound with no crank, even with seemingly bright lights, is a classic symptom of a weak or discharged battery, or a poor connection, despite your vehicle being relatively new. While your lights might appear bright, the battery may not have enough amperage (cold cranking amps) to turn over the starter motor.

Here's a structured approach to diagnose your 2023 Genesis GV70's no-start condition:

  1. Battery Health Check:
    • Voltage Test: Use a multimeter to check the battery's voltage. A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts or higher. Anything below 12.0 volts indicates a discharged battery. Even 12.2-12.4 volts might not be enough to reliably start the car.
    • Terminal Inspection: Thoroughly inspect your battery terminals for corrosion (white or green powdery substance) and ensure they are tightly secured. Loose or corroded terminals can prevent proper current flow to the starter.
  2. Starter Motor: If the battery and connections are good, the next suspect is the starter motor. The rapid clicking could be the starter solenoid engaging but not having enough power to spin the motor, or the solenoid itself could be failing. A shop can test the starter motor directly.
  3. Ground Connections: A poor ground connection between the battery, engine, and chassis can mimic a dead battery. Check the main battery ground cable where it connects to the chassis and the engine block for looseness or corrosion.
  4. Immobilizer System: While less likely to cause just clicking, a fault in the immobilizer system could prevent the engine from starting. However, this typically results in no crank at all or a crank-no-start, often with a security light illuminated on the dash.
  5. Fuses and Relays: Check the main starter fuse and relay in your under-hood fuse box. Consult your owner's manual for their exact locations. You can try swapping the starter relay with a known good, identical relay (e.g., horn relay) to test it.

When to See a Shop:

  • If you've confirmed the battery is fully charged and terminals are clean and tight, but the issue persists.
  • If you suspect a faulty starter motor, as replacement can be complex.
  • If you're unable to locate or test fuses/relays, or if you find a blown fuse that immediately blows again after replacement.
  • If you suspect an immobilizer system fault, as this requires specialized diagnostic tools.