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Home/Cars/Honda/Civic/9th Generation (2012-2015)/why does my Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015) won't start but just clicks?

why does my Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015) won't start but just clicks?

Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium1-3 hours
3 min read
563 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix starting issues in 2012-2015 Honda Civic 9th Generation. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Electrical
Repair Time
1-3 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on electrical components.
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before accessing components near the engine.

Symptoms

  • •Vehicle does not crank or start, only a clicking noise is heard.
  • •Dashboard lights and accessories function normally.
  • •Battery warning light may illuminate.
  • •Possible dimming of dashboard lights when attempting to start.
  • •Clicking sound may come from the starter relay or solenoid.

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Check Battery Voltage: Use a multimeter to measure the battery voltage. A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts or higher.
  2. 2Inspect Battery Connections: Visually inspect the battery terminals for corrosion or looseness. Ensure they are clean and tightly connected.
  3. 3Test the Starter: Use a jumper wire to bypass the ignition switch and see if the starter engages directly.
  4. 4Check Starter Relay: Locate the starter relay in the fuse box and test it for continuity using a multimeter.
  5. 5Examine Fuses: Inspect fuses related to the starting system for any blown fuses, particularly the ignition and starter fuses.
  6. 6Conduct Load Test on Battery: Perform a load test on the battery to verify its ability to hold charge under load.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Tools Required: Multimeter, jumper wires, socket set, torque wrench.
  • Safety Warnings: Disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on electrical components.

2. Battery Replacement (If Faulty)

  1. Remove the negative battery terminal followed by the positive terminal.
  2. Use a socket set to unbolt the battery hold-down bracket, then carefully lift the battery out.
  3. Place the new battery in the tray and secure it with the hold-down bracket.
  4. Connect the positive terminal first, then the negative terminal.
  5. Ensure all connections are tight and clean.

3. Starter Replacement (If Faulty)

  1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
  2. Remove any necessary components obstructing access to the starter (e.g., air intake duct).
  3. Unplug the electrical connector from the starter.
  4. Remove the mounting bolts for the starter using the socket set.
  5. Carefully pull the starter from its mounting location.
  6. Install the new starter by reversing the removal process, ensuring all connections are secure.
  7. Reconnect the negative battery terminal.

4. Relay Replacement (If Necessary)

  1. Locate the starter relay in the fuse box.
  2. Remove the relay by pulling it straight out of the socket.
  3. Insert the new relay into the socket firmly.
  4. Recheck all connections before starting the vehicle.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Multimeter
  • Jumper wires
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench

Parts Required

  • New battery (if faulty)
  • New starter (if faulty)
  • New starter relay (if necessary)

Additional Information

Component

Electrical

Repair Time

1-3 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

4 items

Parts

3 items

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