2000 Camry won't start - weird problem

[3deal]

My 2000 Camey (4cyl) won't start. There were only multiple click sound from engine bay when i turned the key. I took out the starter and went to Autozone. The starter tested fine. I cleaned connectors and put it back but got same rapid click sound when the ignition was turned. This time though there was an initial whining sound for a second then followed by clicks. I am puzzled now. The started seems ok. Maybe it is cable issue? The battery was dead so I had to use jump cables connecting to the battery of my other car. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

[capnblinski]

Sounds like you tackled the problem bass-ackwards.

[3deal]

Originally Posted by capnblinski

Sounds like you tackled the problem bass-ackwards.

Care to elaborate?

[fenixus]

didn't new battery solve it?

rapid clicking sound is usually caused by not enough amps from weak battery (e.g. voltage below 11V).

[3deal]

Originally Posted by fenixus

didn't new battery solve it?

rapid clicking sound is usually caused by not enough amps from weak battery (e.g. voltage below 11V).

Thanks for the reply. I will try a new battery to see if that is the issue.

[fenixus]

ah, sorry I think I misunderstood. thought you did that already...

try cleaning battery posts and terminals with a steel wire brush first until they are all shiny clean. make sure there is no rust nor oxidation.

however if battery is older than 5 years, I would go ahead and get a new one... still clean the terminals on wires.

[capnblinski]

Care to elaborate?

- from your post it sounded as if you took out the starter first when all you had was a dead battery - perhaps I misunderstood?

[JohnGD]

^+1

Sounds like a dead battery all along. However, Autozone offers free battery, starter, and charging system testing.

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/ino...s/services.jsp

[3deal]

Put a brand new battery in today and the car started Didn't know the starter needs so much current. I thought by using jump cables from my other car's battery can start the car. Maybe it is time to get a new battery for my other car too

[fenixus]

yea, I usually check them with multimeter (20V setting on dial) while cranking. old batteries voltage will plummet down to nothing (like 2 volts) if battery is weak and a helper tries cranking.
It's a good idea to replace batteries after 4-5 years. best if you keep the original receipt and use pro-rated warranty (now usually 7-8 years) towards the purchase of a new one from same chain of stores like Autozone or Advance Auto

generally dirty terminals may prohibit battery charging (even if alternator works fine) and the battery will end up at some point with voltage (at shut off car) below 11V, e.g. after shot distance driving with stereo and lights on... had this happened to wife's car with 4.5 yrs old Duralast battery, just brought it in and got a new (took stronger model with more cold cranking amps instead) one at significant discount ($34 off retail).