when i turn the key all i get is a clicking noise from under the bonnet, it bump started down a hill ok, i drove it around, no problem, when i turned the engine off, tryied the key again and got the same clicking noise, can anyone help

kevin harris, July 2010

Your battery is knackered!!! it might have enough power left in it to power the ignition system, hence the bump start OK but the VERY heavy load from the starter motor the battery volts are dropping so low that the relays are clicking and the starter motor not turning the engine over!!!

paul, July 2010

either your battery is at fault,check connections and earths right down to starter,or you have a faulty starter

wickham, July 2010

.is battery ok if so you need to check engine earth lead is secure and making good connections ,if ok you will need to check small wire on solenoid is getting battery voltage [12volts] when key is turned to start position,if ok then it will possibly be your starter at fault -brushes may be worn out, you could try giving starter a few hits with a hammer [not too hard] this sometimes makes temp brush contact and it might start if car is stuck in a bad place!

k, July 2010