I noticed one morning about a week ago, that when I turned the ignition, it seemed to delay slightly before starting normally, like missing a heartbeat.

Then yesterday, I tried to start again, a couple of times it attempted to start but quickly cut off, then after those 2 attempts nothing at all - it was just dead.

The speedometer and rev counter flicked a bit and then went dead immediately each time I turned the ignition, in perfect synchronisation.

Is there any easy way to say whether it is the ignition or a new battery that is required? The battery light did not flash red when it wouldn't start, so I think its more likely the starter motor.

Any thoughts?

Do all the normal lights come on when you turn the key? Do the windows go up and down as quick as they used to?
It could be the battery is fine but the alternator is not charging it so the battery has not been re-charged. Check the voltages first before diving in to change anything ingnition wise.

Thank you for replying.

Just tried it, yes lights still come on, windows go up and down just as fast, blower (my a/c) works just as well even on max (4). In fact they all worked at same time - lights, windows, blower.

The ignition just won't turn over.

Reanswolf said:

Thank you for replying.

Just tried it, yes lights still come on, windows go up and down just as fast, blower (my a/c) works just as well even on max (4). In fact they all worked at same time - lights, windows, blower.

The ignition just won't turn over.

Click to expand...

Ok put fan on No4..'raging gale'

Now turn key.. does the fan slow down ?

Also do oil and battery lights dim ??

varesecrazy said:

Ok put fan on No4..'raging gale'

Now turn key.. does the fan slow down ?

Also do oil and battery lights dim ??

Click to expand...

Ok, put fan to 4, turned key half way to engage and the fan came on at full blast, but when turned ignition a little further to try to turn engine on, the fan just went dead, and of course no ignition happened as everything including speedometer just went dead.

Perhaps, tellingly, I tried this several times, and the fan on number 4 seems to be getting weaker (maybe as though battery is draining?).

Thank you for your help. I am just trying to ascertain whether getting a mate round with jump leads will get it started so I can get it to garage.

Reanswolf said:

Ok, put fan to 4, turned key half way to engage and the fan came on at full blast, but when turned ignition a little further to try to turn engine on, the fan just went dead, and of course no ignition happened as everything including speedometer just went dead.

Perhaps, tellingly, I tried this several times, and the fan on number 4 seems to be getting weaker (maybe as though battery is draining?).

Thank you for your help. I am just trying to ascertain whether getting a mate round with jump leads will get it started so I can get it to garage.

Click to expand...

As youve noticed.. the battery is fading

But.. if its a petrol.. manual

And the fuel pump still runs

You should be able to push start it

( steering will be heavy.. and brakes poor til motor is running)

Look in grande sections FAQs..top of section..in yellow

For info on tests of the cars earth cables with a jump lead