Rep Power: 0

My CR-V refused to start yesterday morning and I instead hear a rapid clicking from behind/under the radio. It isn't the battery because I took it to 2 parts houses and the verdict is it capable of supplying 490 (VA?)

Other threads have led me to believe it is most probably a poor connection to the starter solenoid, and I'd like to check the connections or give the solenoid a knock or 2 ... but my problem is not knowing where to find these connections or what to knock on. The connection problem shouldn't be at the battery because they appear to be in good shape, and I cleaned the post & connectors with a wire brush after re-installing the battery, and it's also my habit to lube the posts with waterproof grease. It's also the case that all lights and radio appear to be getting plenty of power, and nothing goes dim when I try to start the car.

I also suspect it's a connection issue because I've just had some work done up front which required removing the radiators and the protective cover beneath the engine that would keep road dirt & water out of the front of the engine compartment was not replaced (... it's the last time I take it to that shop!)

In any case, I'm hoping someone can give me some ideas for Sunday, before I call a shop to come get the car on Monday.

TIA & Cheerios from the Avalon Peninsula

 
Rep Power: 517

The only way to reach and replace the starter is to remove the intake manifold.
Not a job for a rookie, and you had better be pretty damn sure you need to be in the area before you take it apart.

Removing the starter cut relay and testing all 4 terminals in the socket can reveal a ton of useful information and give immediate direction--if one knows how and has wiring diagrams.

The only thing you can't really test from there is the big cable from the battery to the starter.

 
Rep Power: 0

I hear you, and assumed as much if needing to replace the starter or solenoid. However, I was hoping I'd be able to evaluate/clean the connections without removing the manifold. Is there absolutely no access?

TIA

 
Rep Power: 517

How tiny are your hands? I don't know how much you can do with it all assembled.......but IIRC I couldn't SAFELY do much and just yanked the intake. Once it is off you can test and crank it, and you better find one to replace it before you take it apart.

If a human hasn't touched it prior to this, it will probably get a starter.
Be sure to disconnect the knock sensor wire, you can break things if you don't.