Have you ever been in a hurry to get somewhere, only to have your vehicle not start? While there are a good number of reasons why you aren't able to get your engine running, you can actually identify many of them on your own.
Some of them can even be remedied on the spot. If you are driving a Toyota Tacoma and you only get a clicking sound when you attempt to start it, we can help you troubleshoot. We researched the Toyota Tacoma to provide you with a definitive answer.
There are five reasons why your Toyota Tacoma is clicking instead of starting the engine. Those reasons are:
- Corroded battery cables
- Faulty starter motor
- Low battery voltage
- Ground strap issue
- Faulty power cable
Now that we know the causes of your Toyota Tacoma clicking instead of starting, we'll take a closer look at each one. You might also be curious if the Toyota Tacoma has engine problems or how long a Toyota Tacoma will last you. Why won't the car start after the battery is replaced?
Does Toyota have any recalls for the Tacoma pickup truck? For the answers to these questions and more, read ahead in this post to see what our research has uncovered.
Examining the reasons why your Tacoma is clicking
Let's take a closer look at these potential culprits and offer some solutions.
Corroded battery cables
The battery will not be able to transmit all of the necessary power your vehicle needs to start if anything is blocking the juice from leaving it. Pop open your hood and examine the battery terminals and cables.
If you notice a lot of corrosion on them, this is probably the reason why your Tacoma won't start. Carefully disconnect the cables from the posts, and thoroughly clean the gunk off. Use gloves, a stiff brush, and an approved cleaner.
Reconnect the battery and try to start your Tacoma. If this was the issue, it should fire right up.
Faulty starter motor
A malfunctioning starter motor can produce clicking sounds when attempting to start your Tacoma. While this issue necessitates a replacement of the starter, it's not typically a costly fix.
Although professional installation is an option, those with a moderate level of mechanical know-how and the necessary tools can tackle this task themselves. Numerous online resources, including step-by-step guides and tutorial videos, provide helpful instructions for DIY starter motor replacement.
Even with a faulty starter motor, you're not entirely stranded. It's possible to bypass the starter motor temporarily, especially during emergencies. However, this should not become a habitual solution, as replacing the faulty starter is crucial for maintaining the proper functioning of your vehicle.
It Still Runs offers a guide on bypassing the starter motor. If you are equipped with the essential tools and possess some mechanical skills, this could serve as a temporary fix. Nonetheless, arranging for a starter replacement at your earliest convenience remains imperative.
Low battery voltage
This is the most common cause of clicking. If you have a weak or dead battery, there won't be enough power to get the engine to turn over.
This problem can easily be solved by getting the battery jumped. Having a set of jumper cables in your vehicle is a must, especially if you have an older battery or if you have a habit of leaving your lights on by accident.
Ground strap issue
A ground cable runs from the engine to the body of the vehicle. If this ground is damaged, it can keep the engine from getting the power it needs to start.
Faulty power cable
There is a larger power cable that runs from the battery to the starter. While not the most common as the causes above, this cable should be examined. If rodents have chewed on it, it could be keeping your car from starting.
Why won't my car start after replacing the battery?
There can be several reasons why a battery replacement won't solve your problem.
Assuming the battery is not faulty and is fully charged, the first possible cause would be if the battery was improperly connected. Double-check this, and be certain that there aren't any signs of corrosion on the battery cables.
If the battery is connected properly and the connectors are clean, then the problem could be the alternator or the starter. Either of these issues will require new parts and professional installation.
Earlier in this post, we mentioned that if it is the starter, you can bypass it and get your vehicle started. With the alternator, there isn't a shortcut, unfortunately.
Are there any recalls on a Toyota Tacoma?
Nearly every model vehicle has had a recall or two. With mass production, there are sure to be some faulty parts manufactured. Design flaws aren't always obvious until well after the release of a vehicle.
But when there are known issues that impact the performance, safety, and convenience of a vehicle, a manufacturer will typically recall affected models so that the issues can be rectified.
The Tacoma is not an exception to this. At the time of this writing, this popular pickup truck has been recalled 51 times by Toyota.
The 2009 and 2010 model Tacoma were the years that were most impacted by recalls. In those two model years, the wiring for the heated seats and faulty airbags were the most prevalent issues.
Other model years have had faulty master cylinders, defective running boards, crank position sensor malfunctions, and other issues.
For a complete list of Toyota Tacoma recalls by year, Car Complaints is a great source. They get information directly from the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration.
Does Toyota Have Engine Problems?
The vast majority of model years of Toyota Tacoma have not had substantial engine issues. However, the 2016 and 2017 Tacomas are an exception.
The first of the third generation of Tacoma, the 2016 model, was plagued with engine malfunctions that ranged from the engine stalling to the engine making unexpected power surges. The 2017 models were reported to have similar issues.
Compacting these engine problems were the transmission failures of the 2017 models. Both years were recalled by Toyota, however.
How Long Do Toyota Tacomas Last?
With proper care and regular maintenance, Toyota Tacomas have shown the potential to exceed the initial estimated lifespan of 200,000 to 250,000 miles considerably. It's not uncommon for well-maintained Tacomas to reach the milestones of 400,000 to 500,000 miles.
The longevity of a Toyota Tacoma can vary based on the model generation and adherence to maintenance schedules. Now, let's get into some proven strategies to maximize the mileage and ensure a long, reliable service life from your Toyota Tacoma.
Maintaining a Regular Maintenance Schedule
Keeping a strict maintenance schedule is key to making your Toyota Tacoma last longer, even reaching 400,000 to 500,000 miles with good care.
Follow the factory-recommended maintenance schedule closely. This schedule, designed to keep your Tacoma in optimal condition, outlines specific service tasks at various mileage intervals. Each visit to your mechanic or dealership should align with these intervals to ensure timely upkeep.
Routine maintenance includes key tasks like changing the oil, oil filter, air filter, and fuel filter. These basic yet essential maintenance tasks play a pivotal role in maintaining the engine's efficiency and longevity.
It's important to have a professional check key parts like the suspension system and timing belt or chain to ensure they work safely. Over time, these parts can wear or deteriorate, and timely maintenance can prevent potential issues, ensuring a smooth and safe driving experience.
Skipping regular maintenance can cause vital parts to wear out faster, leading to early breakdowns and costly repairs. The importance of routine maintenance extends beyond Tacoma to any vehicle, as a well-maintained vehicle is synonymous with reliability and extended service life.
By adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule and ensuring that your Tacoma receives the necessary care, you set the stage for enjoying a durable and dependable driving companion for hundreds of thousands of miles.
Regularly Clean Your Tacoma
Thoroughly washing your truck gets rid of debris and chemicals that might cause the body to corrode. This is especially true if you live near a coast or in a climate where road salt is applied in the winter to de-ice the roadways.
Do a complete job of washing the truck, especially the underside and the wheel wells.
On the interior, you can prolong the life and effectiveness of your filtration system if you keep it clean. Never smoke in your vehicle, as the smoke will damage the electrical system.
Drive it safely
Be aware of how you drive your Tacoma. Lots of stop-and-go driving, sudden braking, and quick accelerations will make moving parts wear quicker. So, drive carefully and with a purpose so you can keep your brakes, tires, and suspension systems lasting as long as possible.
In closing
The engine clicking in your Toyota Tacoma can have up to five causes, each of which can be remedied by you or a trusted mechanic.
This popular pickup truck has had some issues with a few model years in the past, but overall, it has proven to be a pretty solid and reliable vehicle. Take care of it with routine maintenance, and yours could last up to 250,000 miles and beyond. Drive safe!
If you enjoyed reading this post on the Toyota Tacoma, be sure to check out these others:
Toyota Tacoma Won’t Shift Out Of Park – What Could Be Wrong?
10 Best Toyota Tacoma mud flaps That Will Protect Your Truck
Toyota Tacoma Packages: What’s Available [By Trim Level]
