If your car is making a buzzing sound when turning key in the ignition, it can raise some concerns. Even if your car does start, the buzzing sound is still enough to make you worry.
So, what could cause this issue? In this article, we will explain the top five reasons a car will make a buzzing sound when you turn the key in the ignition.
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Car Making Buzzing Sound When Turning Key
Several components make a car work. Your vehicle needs a functional battery, starter motor, ignition switch, and power distribution system.
When you turn the key in the ignition, the car sends a signal to the starter motor, which is responsible for turning over the engine and starting it. If any of these components are not working correctly or have become damaged, they can cause a buzzing sound when you turn the key in the ignition.
With that said, let’s take a look at the potential reasons your car is buzzing when turning the key in the ignition:
Failing Car Battery
One of the most common reasons your car makes a buzzing sound when turning the key in the ignition is a failing car battery. If the battery has become drained and is no longer able to supply sufficient power, it can cause a buzzing sound as the starter motor struggles to turn over the engine.
A simple way to test your car battery is with a voltmeter. If the car battery has a voltage of 12.4 volts or less, it will most likely need to be replaced.
Faulty Ignition Switch
The ignition switch sends an electrical signal from the key to the starter motor. If this component fails, it can cause a buzzing sound when you turn the key in the ignition.
You may also notice that the car takes longer to start, or it may not start at all. In this case, you will need to have your ignition switch inspected and replaced if necessary.
Faulty Starter Motor
The starter motor is an essential component for starting your car’s engine. If the starter motor fails or becomes damaged, it can cause a buzzing sound when you turn the key in the ignition.
Bad Power Distribution System
If any of the components connected to the power distribution system are not working properly or have become damaged, it can cause a buzzing sound when you turn the key in the ignition.
Car Alternator Issues
The alternator keeps the battery charged when your car is running. If the alternator fails or becomes damaged, it can cause a buzzing sound when you turn the key in the ignition.
If this is the issue, you may also notice that your headlights and interior lights are dimmer than usual while driving.
No matter the reason for the buzzing sound, it’s important to get your car checked by a professional. Doing so will help ensure that you don’t have any other potential problems that could cause more damage in the future.
Why Is My Car Making A Clicking Noise When Turning Key?
Another common issue is a clicking noise when you turn the key in the ignition. A few different things can cause this, and some are easy to spot. Let’s cover each one to help you narrow down the cause.
Dead Battery
If you left your lights on or your car has sat for a while without running, the battery may be too drained to start. Give it a jump start or a charge, and try again.
In addition, your car battery may be bad. If your car battery is over three years old, it’s time to consider replacing it. Most automotive stores will check your battery for free.
If your battery is bad, then you can have it changed on the spot. If it’s still good, you can move on to other possible causes of a clicking noise when turning the key in the ignition.
Bad Alternator
If you charge your car battery only to find it die shortly after, it could be a sign of an issue with your alternator. The alternator is responsible for keeping the battery charged while you’re driving. If it’s not working properly, then your battery will die shortly after being charged.
Faulty Ignition Switch
A faulty ignition switch can cause a clicking noise when turning the key in the ignition. This component sends an electrical signal from the key to the starter motor so the engine can start.
If this component fails, it can cause a clicking noise as the starter motor struggles to turn over the engine. In this case, you will need to have your ignition switch inspected and replaced if necessary.
Faulty Starter Motor
The starter motor is an essential component for starting your car’s engine. Without the starter motor, your engine won’t even turn over. If the starter motor fails or becomes damaged, it can cause a clicking noise when you turn the key in the ignition.
Bad Starter Solenoid
The starter solenoid is a switch that allows current to flow from the battery to the starter motor. If this component becomes damaged or malfunctions, it can cause a clicking noise when you turn the key in the ignition.
Why Is My Car Making A Grinding Noise When Turning Key?
More times than not, a grinding noise when turning the key in the ignition is due to a bad car starter. The reason it makes a grinding noise is that the starter motor is trying to turn, but the gear teeth are not engaging.
This could be caused by either a faulty starter motor or an issue with the flywheel, which is connected to the engine’s crankshaft. You will need to have your starter checked and replaced if necessary.
Broken Flywheel Teeth
Another possible cause of a grinding noise when turning the key in the ignition is if the flywheel teeth are broken. The flywheel is connected to the engine’s crankshaft and controls the engine’s timing.
If one or more of its teeth become damaged, then a grinding noise will occur when you turn the key in the ignition. In this case, you will need to have the flywheel replaced.
How Many Volts Is A Car Battery?
Typically, a car battery can have between 12.6 and 14.4 volts when fully charged. When the battery is low, you may see readings of 10 volts or lower.
It’s important to keep an eye on your car battery voltage, as a low reading could indicate that it needs to be serviced or replaced. If you are having any issues with your car starting, it’s a good idea to check the car battery voltage.
You should also ensure your car battery terminals and cables are in good shape. Be sure to clean the contacts and replace the cables if there is corrosion.
You can clean the battery terminal and connection points by using a solution of baking soda and water. As mentioned, a car battery typically lasts 3 years or so, and it’s a good idea to consider replacing it after this amount of time. Most automotive stores will check your battery for free.
How Long Does A Car Starter Last?
There is no certain answer to how long a car starter lasts. In one vehicle, it could last 50,000 miles, while another could last the life of the car.
A few factors that can affect the longevity of your starter include how frequently you drive, how well-maintained your vehicle is, and even the climate you live in. Generally speaking, if a starter motor has been properly serviced and kept in good condition, it should last at least 50,000 miles.
When turning the key, be sure not to over-crank the car. Doing so can damage the starter motor and cause it to fail prematurely. This is a common mistake by new drivers and can cost you a lot of money in repairs.
On average, a new car starter can cost between $100-$300 and should be done by a mechanic. Older vehicles are easier to change on your own, but you are sure to consult a mechanic or car care manual if you are unsure.
Final Thoughts
No matter what kind of noise your car is making, it’s important to get it checked by a professional as soon as possible. Doing so will help ensure that you don’t have any other potential problems that could cause more damage in the future. With the right care and maintenance, your car should provide you with years of reliable service.
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