1997 Dodge Caravan won't start - has a tick tick sound

Hi savvyuserbyo;

That tick, tick sound is probably the starter solenoid trying to activate the starter.

Here's a couple of things you can try. Take a hammer and tap the starter motor (not real hard, just medium) and then try to start it.

The 2nd thing you can do it to take a piece of wire, like lamp cord and(with someone helping) touch one end to the small terminal on the starter. (There is a large battery size wire connected to a large terminal on the starter, this is not the one you use) use the small terminal. Have your helper touch the other end to the positive terminal of the battery.

If the engine cranks. the solenoid is probably bad. If it doesnt crank the starter is bad.

The final thing to do is to remove the starter (after you disconnect the ground lead of the battery) and take it to an Auto Zone type store and have them check it out for you. BTW, starter and solenoid are sold as a unit. I just replace mine on my 94 F159 and is cost $100 exchange. If you need a replacement get a rebuilt rathert than a new. Just as good and cheaper.

Hope this helps Good Luck Loringh PS Please leave a rating if Appropriate. Thanks

I try to start my 1997 dodge caravan but the dome lights won't come on and it makes a ticking sound. If I push on the brake the sound stops. What can this be?

Had the same problem. Replaced the brushes in the solenoid, fixes the problem. I might add that the brushes are only avialble from the Dodge dealer,
Total cost was 47.90 .Brushes were 20.00 .Labour and taxes 27.90.

Starter solinoid but you have to replace starter.