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Home/Cars/Volkswagen/Tiguan/Second Generation (2018-present)/my Volkswagen Tiguan won't start and just clicks what does that mean

my Volkswagen Tiguan won't start and just clicks what does that mean

Volkswagen Tiguan Second Generation (2018-present)

Severity: highDifficulty: medium1-3 hours
3 min read
471 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 Volkswagen Tiguan. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Component
Electrical
Repair Time
1-3 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems to prevent shock or short circuits.
  • ⚠Allow the vehicle to cool before inspecting components in the engine bay.

Symptoms

  • •Engine does not start
  • •Clicking noise from the engine bay
  • •Dashboard lights dim or flicker
  • •No cranking sound from the starter motor
  • •Battery warning light illuminated
  • •Electrical components may function intermittently

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Check the battery voltage using a multimeter; it should read above 12.4 volts for a healthy battery.
  2. 2Inspect battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections.
  3. 3Test the starter motor by jumping the battery terminals directly with jumper cables.
  4. 4Check for any blown fuses related to the starting system.
  5. 5Inspect the ignition switch operation and connections.
  6. 6Verify the condition of the starter relay using an OBD-II scanner or test light.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Ensure the vehicle is in park (automatic) or neutral (manual).
  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent shorts.
  • Gather necessary tools and parts.

2. Battery Inspection

  • Sub-steps:
    • Clean the battery terminals using a wire brush and battery cleaner.
    • Tighten the connections to ensure a good contact.
    • If the battery voltage is low, recharge or replace the battery.

3. Starter Motor Inspection

  • Sub-steps:
    • Locate the starter motor (usually found near the transmission).
    • Remove the electrical connections from the starter using a socket set.
    • Test the starter motor by applying power directly from the battery.
    • If it does not engage, replace the starter motor.

4. Relay and Fuse Check

  • Sub-steps:
    • Locate the fuse box and identify the starter relay.
    • Remove the relay and test it using a multimeter or swap it with a similar relay to check functionality.
    • Replace any blown fuses related to the starting system.

5. Reassemble and Test

  • Sub-steps:
    • Reconnect all electrical connections and terminals snugly.
    • Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
    • Start the vehicle to check if the problem is resolved.

Tools Required:

  • Multimeter
  • Socket set
  • Wire brush
  • Jumper cables
  • Screwdriver set

Parts Required:

  • New battery (if needed)
  • New starter motor (if needed)
  • Fuses or relay (if blown or defective)

Estimated Repair Time: 1-3 hours

Safety Warnings:

  • Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems to prevent shock or short circuits.
  • Allow the vehicle to cool before inspecting components in the engine bay.

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
  • Socket set
  • Wire brush
  • Jumper cables
  • Screwdriver set

Parts Required

  • New battery (if needed)
  • New starter motor (if needed)
  • Fuses or relay (if blown or defective)

Additional Information

Component

Electrical

Repair Time

1-3 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

3 items

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