When the key turns on any car and the only sound heard is "click," it is a solid bet that the solenoid on the starter needs to be replaced. Chevrolet has streamlined the process of replacing this solenoid on their vehicles. The starters are very accessible and easily removed. The process for changing a solenoid on a Chevrolet is the same as most other makes of vehicle. The only difference may be the size of the sockets needed to complete the process.
Disconnect the battery from the car, but do not remove it. Disconnecting the battery will ensure there is no chance of shock while removing and installing the starter.
Disconnect the red and black wires from the back of the starter. Most starters are located at the back of the engine, where it meets the transmission. These two wires supply the power from the car to the starter when the key is turned.
Loosen and remove the two bolts holding the starter to the engine with the 9/16 inch socket and wrench. Remember to hold the starter with one hand when removing the last bolt. This will keep the starter from falling.
Place the starter on a work bench or table. Loosen and remove the two bolts holding the solenoid to the starter with the 8 millimeter socket. The solenoid is the smaller of the two cylinders that make up the starter.
Position the new solenoid in the same location as the old solenoid that was just removed. Make sure the orientation is correct. Reinstall the two bolts that hold the solenoid to the starter. Make sure not to over tighten the bolts. They could break the solenoid.
Position the starter in place under the vehicle and install the two bolts that hold the starter in place by hand. Then tighten the bolts with the socket wrench. Make sure not to over tighten these bolts, as they could break the starter or mount.
Reinstall the wires to the back of the starter in there proper place. Reattach the battery to the cables. Start the vehicle to make sure the new solenoid works properly.
