I just bought a 2007 Outlander XLS. About 5 seconds (give or take) after I start it, I sometimes hear a loud click that appears to be coming from the front of thevehicle (while it's still in park). The click sounds like a large electro-mechanical relay being triggered. I'm not particularly concerned with this, as it's probably just one of the vehicles's sub-systems (heating, A/C, etc.) being turned on. Has anyone else experienced this? Do you know what is causing it?

Thanks!

 

If the a/c is on, that is what you are noticing.
you should check to see if the a/c switch is on inside the cabin before looking any further

 

The ABS does a self-diagnostic at start-up. The owners manual points out that you may hear various noises while this is taking place for a few seconds.

 

all cars with ABS do it for a self test to make sure the pump is working.

 

The ABS click happens at 2.7mph.

 

Maybe its the ABS if your sitting there with your foot on the brake?

 

I keep my climate control in Auto at 75 degrees all year round. After start up, in about 3 seconds, the A/C compressor kicks on and if it's not super hot out, it kicks back off. It is a fairly loud clicking too. People that don't use auto or don't keep it set that way all the time, would not experience this. If memory serves correctly, the XLS always had the auto climate and auto fan as part of that package.