Mitsubishi Repair: wont start, battery work, starter motor


Question
Hello. I have a 1994 diamante DOHC. When I try to start the car I get a clicking sound. It almost sounds like there is a woodpecker under the hood. If I just hold the key in the start position it just constantly clicks. I wasn't sure if this would indicate a starter or alternator problem. I just had a new alternator installed about 2 months ago. It may even be the battery, however the battery was just purchased back in March.

Answer
Anthony,
Because the alternator and battery work closely together, it's not uncommon for one to go bad shortly after the other.  If you have a voltmeter, you can check the charge on your battery.  Without the car running, the voltage across the terminals should read about 12.4 volts.  If the voltage is blow this, it either means the battery is bad or the alternator is not properly charging the battery.  If the voltage is fine, then your problem is mostly likely a bad starter motor.  If you cannot get it started, then have your car towed to a mechanic to test the starter, alternator and battery.  They will be able to pinpoint the problem and correct it.
Good luck!