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2017 Mazda 6 Intermittent No-Start - Just Clicks

0

Heather Y. · rep 0 · May 22, 4:47 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Mazda 6 Sport

Hello Mazda community,

I'm having a frustrating issue with my 2017 Mazda 6 Sport, which has around 80,000 miles. Occasionally, when I try to start the car, all I hear is a single click, and then nothing. All the dashboard lights come on, the radio works, and the headlights are bright, so I don't think it's a dead battery.

Sometimes, if I try it a few times, it will eventually start. Other times, I have to wait a few minutes, and then it fires right up. It's completely intermittent and unpredictable. I had the battery tested at an auto parts store, and they said it was good.

Could this be the starter motor, a relay, or something else electrical? It's really inconvenient and I'm worried about getting stranded. Any advice on what to look into?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 4:47 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

An intermittent no-start condition with a single click, especially when other electrical components seem fine, strongly suggests an issue within the starting circuit. While your battery tested good, it's crucial to ensure good connections.

Common Causes:

  1. Loose or Corroded Battery Terminals: Even if the battery is good, poor contact at the terminals can prevent sufficient current from reaching the starter.
  2. Failing Starter Motor: The most common culprit for a single click. The starter motor itself might be failing, or its solenoid (which engages the starter gear and completes the circuit) could be sticking or worn.
  3. Starter Relay: A faulty starter relay can prevent power from reaching the starter solenoid.
  4. Neutral Safety Switch/Clutch Pedal Switch: If your Mazda 6 is an automatic, a faulty neutral safety switch (or clutch pedal switch for manuals) can prevent the starter from engaging.
  5. Ground Issues: A poor ground connection for the engine or starter can also cause starting problems.

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. Inspect Battery Terminals: Visually check your battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they are tightly secured. Clean any corrosion with a wire brush.
  2. Tap the Starter (Carefully): If you can safely access the starter motor (usually located on the bottom of the engine, near the transmission), try gently tapping it with a hammer or wrench while someone attempts to start the car. If it starts, it's a strong indicator of a failing starter.
  3. Check Starter Relay: Locate your starter relay in the fuse box (check your owner's manual for its exact location). You can try swapping it with a known good, identical relay from a non-critical system (like the horn relay) to see if the problem resolves.
  4. Test for Voltage at Starter: If you have a multimeter, you can test for voltage at the small signal wire going to the starter solenoid when someone tries to start the car. If there's voltage, but no crank, it points to the starter itself.

When to See a Shop:

  • If the problem persists after checking battery connections and swapping the relay.
  • If you're uncomfortable working with electrical components or accessing the starter motor.
  • A professional can perform a comprehensive diagnostic, including load testing the battery and starter, checking voltage drops, and accurately pinpointing the faulty component in the starting circuit.
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