F-150 ignition clicks when starting??

[Ranjo]

1997 F-150, when i turn the key it clicks, turn it again and it starts. Battery reads full charge. Starter, solenoid or something else?????? Thanks

[Airjer_]

One loud click usually is a pretty good indicator the starter is failing.

[Ratt643]

Airjer could be right, the starter could be on its last leg. However, check the small stuff before you take the plunge on a new starter. Check to see if the battery posts and terminals are corroded. The battery cables can corrode inside the lead terminal and cause a poor connnection. You can't see it from the outside unless you have some of the cable insulation pulled back. If you see a green or white colored powder or paste looking substance, they could be corroded. Replace the cable ends or the entire cable. Check your ground cables also. Check the connections on the starter soleniod for any loose or corroded connections. I have seen ignition switches fail but I don't think that is the culprit. You can always take your starter to an alternator shop or auto parts store and have the starter tested. I put brushes in my 94 F-150 starter about 4 years ago and it been going strong ever since. I hope it stays that way! Good luck and let us know what you find!

[dfordski]

Originally Posted by Ratt643

Airjer could be right, the starter could be on its last leg. However, check the small stuff before you take the plunge on a new starter. Check to see if the battery posts and terminals are corroded. The battery cables can corrode inside the lead terminal and cause a poor connnection. You can't see it from the outside unless you have some of the cable insulation pulled back. If you see a green or white colored powder or paste looking substance, they could be corroded. Replace the cable ends or the entire cable. Check your ground cables also. Check the connections on the starter soleniod for any loose or corroded connections. I have seen ignition switches fail but I don't think that is the culprit. You can always take your starter to an alternator shop or auto parts store and have the starter tested. I put brushes in my 94 F-150 starter about 4 years ago and it been going strong ever since. I hope it stays that way! Good luck and let us know what you find!

Yep! Wat he said.