If I had to bet, I'd bet on a failing starter solenoid (the switch that's mounted on the body of the starter). That switch has a lead wire coming in and 2 smaller posts that the lead powers. One post kicks the starter's gear out to catch the flywheel that's mounted to the crankshaft. The other post makes that gear turn, which turns the flywheel and crankshaft. In your case, the gear is kicking out fine (the click is the sound of the starter gear catching the flywheel) but the starter isn't actually turning.
The best way to confirm that this is the problem is simply to remove the starter, take it the parts store (AutoZone, Advance Auto, Oreilly Auto, Pepboys) and have them test the starter. They'll do it for free. If it's bad, replace it. Simple as that.
I'm attaching AllData's instructions on how to remove and reinstall the starter as well as their diagram showing where to find it. Please let me know if there's anything else that you need from me.
Images (Click to enlarge)
Dec 16, 2019 at 4:57 AM
