If your 1997 Corolla won't start, and you're hearing a clicking and humming sound from the starter, there are a few potential issues that could be causing the problem. Additionally, if the airbag light is on, it may or may not be related to the starting issue. Here are some troubleshooting steps you can take:
Check the Battery:
Make sure the battery terminals are clean and tightly connected.
Test the battery voltage with a multimeter. A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts. If it's significantly lower, the battery may need to be charged or replaced.
Inspect the Starter:
The clicking sound you hear could be the starter solenoid engaging but not fully activating the starter motor. This could be due to a faulty starter.
Check for loose or corroded connections at the starter.
If possible, try tapping the starter gently with a tool (while someone attempts to start the car). Sometimes, this can temporarily free a stuck starter.
Examine the Ignition Switch:
A faulty ignition switch can prevent the starter from receiving power. Check for any signs of wear or damage.
Test the ignition switch by turning the key to the start position and checking for voltage at the starter solenoid wire.
Check the Starter Relay:
The starter relay may be malfunctioning. You can try swapping it with a similar relay from another part of the car to see if the problem persists.
Airbag Light:
The airbag light could be unrelated to the starting issue. It might be a separate problem, possibly related to the airbag system's sensors or wiring.
You may need to have the airbag system scanned for trouble codes to determine the specific issue.
