Hi All,

Don't know if anyone can help, but today I tried to start my ST and it was having none of it. I only drive my car once a week, and today was the first day that I've actually been able to go out (I park the car outside and it was covered in about a foot of snow since Tuesday...)

The central locking worked fine. I put the key in the ignition slot, turned it to the II position - everything fine - all electrics operational. But when I turned it to III and tried to start the car the starter motor didn't even attempt to turn the motor. Even weirder: there was a strange electrical rapid clicking noise and the Oil Warning Light kept flashing (at the same time as the clicking noise). I wouldn't say that this was some sort of fault diagnosis - more like the electrical system going a bit haywire!

I checked the battery and connectors - cleaned them up. Same problem. I was going to check out the HT leads and connectors but ran out of time (and light!) I think that the cold (or some moisture) has gotten into the electrical system... not sure.

Has this problem ever happened to anyone else? Can anyone offer any advice please?

Cheers

Paul

Have you tried checking the alternator? I aint too technically minded though but its worth a shot!

Thanks kelartis - I'll check it out...

Does anyone know of any decent mobile mechanics in the Bromley area?

you have a flat battery mate, charge it up and it will be fine, the clicking noise is your starter motor because you dont have enough power in the battery to work it properly.

There will be enough power to pop the central locking, but not enough amps to turn the starter motor. Power must be getting to the starter motor hence the clicking sound. charge the battery or change the battery its the cheapest option.

i remember dad had a similar problem and it turned out to be a dead battery.

Welcome to the world of a Flat Battery.

Ask Micky about this... he knows all about it.

We once had a competition in Newquay to see who could flat their battery quickest. We had everything on possible, ac, stereo, all lights including fog and interior... anything we could tbh.

Micky won this lol and had to jump start him.

I suggest getting some jump leads

Hi All - thanks for your advice!

OK, general concensus is that the battery is flat! Haven't got any jump leads, or anyone to get a jump from anyway. But I've got a charger - so I'll disconnect the battery and will put it on charge.

I'll let you know how it goes!

Cheers

Keep us posted

Why would you do that Scott???

And yup mirror what they have said above, takes sooo much power to start it

Nice!