Nikon D40 doesn't auto-focus in somewhat dark settings and "clicks"

[pmarecle]

I've had my D40 for about 3 years and haven't had issues with it until now. It takes pictures perfectly fine outside during the day, but when it starts getting somewhat dark or I go inside, the auto-focus will not completely focus and the button will make a clicking noise when I try to press it down halfway. The result is a dark blurry photo. Very frustrating! I have this problem even with changing to a different lens (I have two different lenses). I don't know if this is something I can fix, or if it is broken and needs to be repaired? Thank you in advance for answering!

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[Rephargotohp]

All AF systems have a hard time working in the dark. Especially with Kit lenses that don't have very wide aperture. Try setting your camera to use the center point the most sensitive in most cameras) and then look for a line of contrast to focus on. If you try focusing on a large flat surface the AF will never lock

[pmarecle]

It's the same even in Manual mode. They still turn out not completely focused, even though I focused perfectly on the item. And I got a flashing "flash/?" thing in my monitor when I was taking the picture (the flash wasn't working even though it was up).

[Rephargotohp]

Is the lens itself clicking and not the whirring sound of it trying to focus...if so It may be broke or slipped the gear

[pmarecle]

The clicking doesn't happen in manual, only in auto. And only when I go to press the button down halfway. I think it might be the lens clicking..or the focus mechanism. I'm not very knowledgeable with cameras, other than basics. But this happens with both of my lenses..which is pretty weird if it's a lens problem. I think it must be the actual camera.