The alternator generates electricity, so it's not part of the starting system, which uses the stored electricity in the battery. If the lights work, the battery must be pretty well ok. The starter might be stuck, or it might have failed.
If the lights in the car come on, then at least part of the system is getting power. Check the battery connections again. Then check the starter solenoid and starter to insure that they are getting power and are working properly.
Yes, the clicking is the starter, but there's probably nothing wrong with it. Your battery doesn't have enough juice to turn the starter motor (draws lots of current), but still has enough to turn on the lights and accessories. Try jump starting it or trickle charge the battery.
most likely tha starter is bad or the power to the starter is bad
It could be the starter, keyswitch, neutral lockout switch, wiring connector or any of a number of other problems. Unfortunately you have to just track it down.
if the lights inside your van dont turn on as well that means your alternator fuse is blown, headlights and taillights will work but the car wont start until you replace the fuse. fuse is located in the engine bay at the front area by the radiator.
the starter,battery and the alternator are good,icheck and change the the wires but the light inside the dashboard,the headlights come on but the truck will not start.
If the dash lights come on, but the engine won't start, check the starter. There could also be a problem with the fuel line or the spark plugs. If the engine turns over, but won't start, check all of the fuel sensors. If the motor has a clicking or buzzing sound, check the alternator.
If the lights come on, it's obviously not the battery. It could be a number of things. IE spark plugs, ignition switches, starter, alternator etc. Also, you should make sure you have gas in the car... -_-
The problem may not be in the starter, but rather the alternator or battery. Your lights and radio may work because it does not require as much power. I asked the question and I have narrowed it done to one of the two possibilities: it is either the ignition switch or the anti theft start fuse under the hood. But thanks for the insight.
The problem isn't your batter or alternator or starter then. Start looking into your fuel management system. Possibly your fuel pump, injectors, etc.
The starter may be at fault.
Yes.
alternator
key reader in steering column.
Is it charging, if not have you checked wiring to alternator.
Do lights come on when turning ignition on? If so, then you have a bad starter/solenoid/relay. If not then, you may have a bad battery or connection or ground.
most likely it is the starter. try moving the van a little bit or banging on the starter with a hammer ... then try to start it again..... if it starts then it is the starter , if not , it may need to be diagnosed by a repair shop ...