6G Celicas Forums

Jumped in my celica and tried to start it and all I get is a clicking sound. All the accessories to come on, but no start. Immediately I thought it was the starter (which was replace 8 years ago), so I started tapping it with a hammer while a buddy was trying to start it. It still would not start. Also, I read the codes and it came back with a code 51. I took the starter off and took it for testing at Advance Auto and the starter was bad. Replaced it under warranty, re-installed it and it still would not start. The battery is good so I recharged it just to make sure it was putting out enough voltage. Tried to start again, still no start. It just keeps making the clicking sound. So now I read the codes again and it came back with a 51 from the ECM. I have read other posts and some members simply replace the starter and it was back running. Not the case here. Any suugestions?

i'm not sure if the code and the starting problem are related. a code 51 is for A/C switch signal.

A/C Switch Circuit
A/C Swith
A/C Amplifier
Throttle Position Sensor Circuit
Throttle Position Sensor
ECM

did you test the alternator?

is it turning over, just not firing? or is it not turning over at all? make sure the starter is wired correctly also.

I took the alternator to Advance Auto and it is in good position. It just keeps clicking when trying to start. I'm thinking now that not enough voltage is reaching the starter, so when I get off today I will test the voltage with a voltmeter.

yes make sure your battery is fully charged.

also, the big positive wire goes from the battery directly to the starter and there is another black wire coming from the starter relay in the fuse box. make sure those are in good condition

make sure the engine has a good ground. the negative cable coming from the battery needs to be bolted directly to the tranny housing. the starter uses the housing as a ground. also make sure this cable is in good condition. if any corrosion, you can get a new wire for under $10 and this will make sure there is a good ground

check all your fuses

I was researching for a problem with my car when I came upon this information in the technical manual:

(referring to checking engine codes in test mode and normal mode)
"NOTE: On all models, Trouble Code 51 will normally be displayed if
automatic transmission/transaxle is in any gear except Park
or Neutral, A/C is turned on, or accelerator pedal is
depressed."

and also:

"CLEARING TROUBLE CODES
1) After performing repairs, clear ECM memory of all stored
trouble codes. To clear memory, turn ignition off. Remove proper fuse
from fuse/relay box for approximately 30 seconds or more. See FUSE
APPLICATION table and FUSE/RELAY BOX LOCATION table.
2) Depending on ambient temperature, fuse may need to be
removed for more than 30 seconds, especially in colder temperatures.
Install fuse. Road test vehicle. Ensure system operates properly (with
no trouble codes) and MIL flashes continuously and evenly. See Fig. 2.
NOTE: Trouble codes may also be cleared by disconnecting negative
battery cable. However, other memory functions (clock,
radio, alarm, seats, etc.) will be canceled and must be
reset.
3) With certain trouble codes, once trouble code has been
cleared from ECM memory, a trouble code detection driving pattern test
can be performed to verify repairs and that trouble has not reset. For
information on trouble code detection driving pattern test, see
TROUBLE CODE DETECTION DRIVING PATTERN TESTS."

Maybe this will be of some use to you?