The clicking under the dash is probably the normal cycling of the relays as you turn the key on/off but if they are constantly clicking after you stop turning the key then you might have a battery or wiring problem. With the help of a buddy, have them turn the key to start and hold it while you give the battery cables a wiggle or tug. Im pretty sure the starter is at the back of the engine and under the intake manifold, you might be able to see it right under the throttle body area. If you have a long bar or something you can tap on the starter to see if that might help you diagnose the problem.
I just had to replace a battery that was well within warranty.
Does it click once when you turn the key? Or a few clicks?
A few clicks is usually a sign of a battery issue (battery, bad cables/ground/connection), alternator though you said it works when driving)
A bad starter or one with bendix usually just clicks once if at all, in my experience. If you think it's a starter sticking, you can often check it by tapping with a mallet while someone cranks the key. That can be enough to free the bendix and allow it to engage and start the car.
Are we sure it isn't a bad solenoid? Had to replace my 98 Corolla solenoid a while back. Would start sometimes, but would click most of the time.
There should be a battery relay in the fuse box to the right of the battery.
Similar threads
