• The solenoid in an automobile's starter manages the voltage needed for the larger component to send power to crank the engine. Unfortunately for most drivers, the first symptom of a starter problem is actually the outright failure of the part. An automobile with a bad starter typically has a no-start condition and a lack of engine noise when attempting to start the vehicle.
  
  

No Start When Jumped

• A damaged solenoid can prevent a vehicle from starting even when the battery is being jumped by a second car. This is due to the starter pulling too much voltage into its components, causing the system to lock up. Use a voltmeter on the solenoid and the starter's connectors to determine if the starter is carrying a high resistance which would cause this voltage drain. According to AA1 Car, the maximum allowable voltage drain for the starter circuit and solenoid is about .06 volts or less.
  
  

Clicking Sounds When Attempting to Start

• A starter that doesn't have enough amps to spin properly will make a clicking sound. This noise may be coming from the solenoid as it attempts to begin the starting process and is unable to do so. Unfortunately, that clicking sound is the only sound your vehicle will make because without proper power the starter cannot operate, and your car cannot start. A voltage test of the starter's components is necessary to determine if the solenoid is the culprit. This test determines the flow of voltage from the battery to the starter and through the ignition system. If the solenoid is the cause of the problem, voltage will not be able to pass through it.
  
  

No Headlight Dimming

• Headlights may seem an odd thing to pay attention to when your car is not starting, but watching how they react during the ignition process can help determine if the solenoid is the root cause. Headlights that do not dim, while starting the vehicle, are an indication that voltage is not reaching the starter. This can be caused by a faulty solenoid within the starter.