Not starting - help!

Newbie Joined: 24 Aug 2005 Posts: 10

Drove home from work fine, 10 mins later the car is completely dead. Can hear a clicking noise as i turn the key but nothing else. Have tried starting it with an engine starter, but still nothing. Thought it might be overheating, but it's had 2hrs to cool down. Checked all the fuses, what else could it be? It's a mk1 1.4. It's always started 1st time every time until now.

Site Subscriber Joined: 07 Oct 2004 Posts: 2281

Checked the battery's working?

Other than that I believe the alternator could be the culprit but I'd wait for the more knowledgable to make their diagnoses!

Site Subscriber Joined: 10 Jun 2004 Posts: 2317

Check the main positive lead to the starter motor.

Newbie Joined: 24 Aug 2005 Posts: 10

I'm quite sure it's not the battery or the alternator. The engine starter i used is fully charged and i also have a battery protector which connects to the lighter. If the battery is low, a red light comes on and cuts off power to any devices. I was able to drive to and from work without problems so it seems to be something quite sudden. I can't see any loose wires either.

Newbie Joined: 24 Aug 2005 Posts: 10

Just noticed a 2 pin plug thats hanging loose immediately behind the passenger headlight, could that be for the starter motor? or is it unused? It's not for the headlight. Will have to wait till tomorrow to have a better look.

Level 10 User Joined: 22 Mar 2005 Posts: 621

Check the earths! I was tearing my hair out for days when mine wouldn't go and that was all that was wrong with it!

Newbie Joined: 24 Aug 2005 Posts: 10

Sorted! + lead to starter was not loose but covered in gunk.