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Morxx
10-09-2007, 3:26 PM
When I try to start my car it just gives one click and that's it. I dont think it is the battery. Could it be the starter motor, I have tried bouncing it in case it has jammed but nothing happens.

I am part exchanging this car on Saturday and I desperately need it to start to get me there.

Any suggestions?
Thunderbird
10-09-2007, 3:40 PM
Hi

When it gives that click, do the lights on the instrument panel turn off?
If they do, there are two possibilities, either the battery is low or the starter motor needs attention. Try to sound the horn while the high beam lights on. If the horn doesn't sound properly, it means the battery has not enough charge. But if it sounds normally, it means the starter motor is faulty and try to check if you can find somebody who supplys them locally by looking for one in your local newspaper.

Try to start the car by pushing it. If it starts, check the battery light on the instrument panel, if it is still on after starting the engin, it means the alternator needs attention. If not, it is very likely to be the starter motor which was causing the problem!

I hope this make sense to you and good luck.

Thunderbird
blindman
10-09-2007, 4:00 PM
When I try to start my car it just gives one click and that's it. I dont think it is the battery. Could it be the starter motor, I have tried bouncing it in case it has jammed but nothing happens.

I am part exchanging this car on Saturday and I desperately need it to start to get me there.

Any suggestions?

Tap ( I said TAP) the starter motor with a hammer. Internal gubbings could be stuck.
Or rock it back and forth whilst in gear.

Used to happen on my (very old) Ford Escort.

Some info here (http://www.hintsandthings.co.uk/garage/diagnosis.htm) re Car starter problems
Morxx
12-09-2007, 8:41 PM
Thanks guys for all the advice

Sorry about the delay in replying - it is definitely the starter motor. My husband got it going by rocking it, he's much stronger than me! I've just got to keep it going till the weekend when I get my new car. (This one doesn't owe me any favours after 17 years brilliant service).
saintjanet
13-09-2007, 1:05 PM
If you started it by rocking it you should be able to do it again,a friend did this or about 6 months with his.:D
nickj
13-09-2007, 7:06 PM
it's probably the starter solenoid , they do tend to stick ,you can either get it recon or new