No start: not even starter, just clicking

[TL8apxrx7]

The car started out acting like the battery was dying with slow starts for a few weeks. Used jumper cables a few times to start it up but then even that didn't work. Purchased a new battery and still all I get is a single click from the starter when I turn the key. The starter was replaced 3 years ago so I hate to think it is the starter, but some evidence while troubleshooting does not indicate the starter. After push-starting the car, the motor fired up and ran just fine. Trying to just throw any idea at the car, while I was driving, I turned the key to the ignition point and the car shut off. Would that indicate a possible ground or ignition problem? I again popped the clutch and it fired right up again and drove fine. I'm really no good at electrical systems but I'm at a loss since I'm disabled and have a very fixed budget, so taking it to a garage is not much of an option at this moment. If it is a ground somewhere... where should I start looking???

Please help...

 

[qiksho]

Here is what I would start with:

1. Disconnect/Clean/Re-install your battery cable connections at the battery.
2. Look at/clean/tighten the connections at the starter

If all of this looks good I would get a multi-meter and test the ignition circuit.

Another thought: I have been able to get a starter to engage when acting like you describe by giving it a few good smacks with a rubber mallet. Of course this doesn't remidy the problem but does provide insight if the car starts after doing this.

 

[sperold]

Sometimes that solenoid that is mounted on your fender needs a whack to get it working again.
Another culprit is you battery cable connection... not so much the lead or metal portion that fits to the battery post, but the cable wire where it attaches to the lead end. Make sure you have continuity there. Often the wire turns green and you lose the conductivity to the point where you won't even get the click anymore.