Why does my Ford Explorer click but not start?

Possible Causes

There are a few possible causes for a Ford Explorer that clicks but doesn’t start:

Weak or dead battery

The most common reason a Ford Explorer won’t start is a weak or dead battery. The battery may have enough charge to power the lights and electronics, but not enough to turn over the starter. This will cause a clicking sound when trying to start as the solenoid engages but the starter doesn’t have enough power to turn over the engine.

Faulty starter motor

If the battery tests good, the next thing to check is the starter motor. Starters can fail in a few different ways that may cause a click but no start condition:

• Damaged starter solenoid: The solenoid is responsible for engaging the starter gear with the flywheel. If it’s damaged, it may partially engage causing a click but not fully turning the starter.
• Bad starter contacts: Corroded, worn or damaged electrical contacts can prevent enough power from reaching the starter motor.
• Bad starter motor: If the motor itself is damaged or worn out, it may not be able to turn over the engine despite receiving power.

Testing the starter motor involves bypassing the solenoid to see if the motor will turn. A bad starter will need to be replaced.

Loose or corroded battery cables

Loose battery cables or corroded terminals can cause high resistance and prevent sufficient power from reaching the starter. The cables and terminals should be cleaned and tightened to ensure a solid connection. This may allow enough power flow for the starter to operate properly.

Faulty neutral safety switch

All automatic transmission Explorers have a neutral safety switch that prevents the starter from engaging unless the transmission is in Park or Neutral. If this switch is faulty, it may think the vehicle is not in gear when it actually is, preventing the vehicle from starting. The neutral safety switch and related wiring should be inspected and tested.

Low fuel pressure

On gasoline models, low fuel pressure can prevent the engine from starting. A failed fuel pump relay, clogged fuel filter, or weak fuel pump can cause fuel pressure to drop too low for proper operation. Measuring fuel pressure at the fuel rail will help diagnose this issue.

Engine immobilizer fault

If your Ford Explorer is equipped with a chipped ignition key and security system, a fault with the transponder, receiver or wiring can prevent the engine from starting. Error codes pointing to the immobilizer system should be scanned and diagnosed.

Faulty ignition switch

A bad ignition switch can mimic many of the symptoms of a starter problem. Switch contacts may fail to fully engage or disengage. Testing the ignition switch and related electrical circuits should be performed.

Diagnosing the No Start Condition

Determining the cause of a no start condition takes some diagnostic work. Here are the main steps:

1. Confirm the battery is charged – Test the battery voltage at rest and while trying to start. If it drops below 10 volts while cranking there is a problem.
2. Check for dash warning lights – The check engine light or battery/charging warning lights may offer clues.
3. Listen for fuel pump prime – Turn the key to ON and listen for the hum of the fuel pump running for a few seconds.
4. Check for spark – Use a spark tester to confirm the ignition system is producing a spark while cranking.
5. Check for fuel pressure – Install a fuel pressure gauge to verify fuel pump operation and pressure.
6. Perform voltage drop tests – Test for excessive voltage drop along the starter and ground circuits.
7. Bypass the starter relay – Use a jumper wire to eliminate the relay as a possible fault.
8. Check starter solenoid – Bypass it or use a multimeter to test for proper operation.
9. Directly test starter – Attempt to spin the starter with 12v power to isolate it as the culprit.

Going through these basic steps methodically will help zero in on the cause.

Solutions

Once the specific reason for the no start is identified, repair or replacement of the faulty components is needed. Here are some of the common fixes:

Recharge or replace battery

– Low battery charge can often be corrected by recharging the battery or jump starting the vehicle.
– A battery that is old or damaged should be replaced. Match OEM specifications for best performance.

Clean/tighten battery connections

– Loose or corroded battery cables cause voltage drop. Clean terminals and tighten connections.

Replace starter motor

– If the starter is determined to be bad, the only repair is replacement. Buy a quality OEM or aftermarket starter.

Replace neutral safety switch

– A faulty neutral safety switch must be replaced. Adjust linkage to ensure proper engagement.

Repair fuel pressure issue

– Replace a failed fuel pump, relay or clogged filter. Repair any fuel line leaks causing low pressure.

Replace ignition switch

– If the ignition switch fails, replacement is required. Ensure correct fit and operation of the replacement.

Repair engine immobilizer system

– Faulty immobilizer components like the key transponder, ECU or receiver must be repaired per manufacturer guidelines.

Prevention

While it’s impossible to avoid ever having a no start problem, proper maintenance and care can help prevent issues and minimize breakdowns.

• Regularly check battery voltage and condition. Replace at 3-5 years.
• Keep battery terminals clean and tight.
• Have your charging system tested annually.
• Change fuel and air filters per the maintenance schedule.
• Don’t run the vehicle battery dead. Jump start when required.
• Keep up with scheduled tune-ups and engine performance service.

Following the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations, addressing small problems promptly, and practicing good care of your Ford Explorer will help avoid a failure to start when you need to get somewhere. Being prepared with some basic tools and diagnostic know-how doesn’t hurt either.

Conclusion

A Ford Explorer that clicks but fails to turn over and start can leave you stranded. The most common causes are battery or starter motor related. Methodically testing the battery, cables, starter and electrical circuits can isolate the problematic component. Replacing the battery, cleaning connections, or installing a new starter may be all that’s needed to get you back on the road. Following regular maintenance procedures for your Explorer will minimize the chances of a frustrating no start condition occurring at the worst possible time.