My 01 Isuzu Rodeo won't start. Turn the key on, it clicks one time, then nothing.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Suggestions Found On Another Site Below " Haven't tried anything yet":

I'm thinking starter solenoid, which I'm told is actually mounted on the starter. But, there is a cylinder shaped solenoid (?) mounted to a triangular shaped housing (about 3 inches) attached to the firewall. I tapped on that solenoid several times and the starter engaged and started. What is that solenoid (on the firewall)? Should I replace the starter.. or what?

#2 of 2 EASY FIX by megatron1 Sep 16, 2007 (10:37 am)
Try the esyiest fix first... I had the same prob... No need to change starter or selenoid... just change the contacts inside the starter(dont even have to take the starter off). There are 2 contacts that the juice flows through inside the starter... they are copper and wear out. There are sites on line that sell the contacts but that way is expensive... just find your local auto electrical specialty shop and they will have them... Fix cost me $5 total.

Do the easiest stuff first. Check the battery, make sure it's not dead. Check the connections to the battery to make sure they're tight and they don't look like a chia pet. If they're white and corroded, get a battery terminal brush from your local parts store and clean the connections (negative terminal off first!) Don't waste your money on that battery terminal sealer/protectant crap.

I jiggled the battery's positive cable up near the post and it started. Noticed the wires are very very rusted beyond belief at the clamps. Was thinking of just re stripping it and be done. Although , it looks like it might have a tough time reaching then. Was then thinking, just buy a new cable, but there are others wires connecting to it.

Thanks

Get the cables replaced and see where you stand. Sounds like a classic starter problem, though.

The cable did the trick, back in business.

Thanks Everyone.