3 replies to this topic

[Mini Type R]

As it's so quiet on here I thought I'd ask a question!!

 

I occasionally have a problem starting the car. When pressing the starter button you can hear the solenoid click but it doesn't crank.

 

I have noticed the following:

When it occurs the voltage drops from 12v to 8-9v for the duration the button is pressed then returns to 12v.

Happens more often when it's hot, very rarely when cold.

If I press the button repeatedly it will usually start as normal after 5-10 presses.

 

The only ideas I have is something in the ECU to stop the starter cranking, possibly due to low voltage, or the starter not fully engaging therefore not allowing it to crank.

 

Has anyone else had this issue?

[cptkirk]

Sounds to me like a sticky starter motor, the voltage drop would be from the starter motor trying to turn but is unable, hence the click of the solenoid but no movement. Would make sense that it only does it when hot, as the clearances are smaller. A new starter should fix it. even a second hand one might cure it.

 

Anyone else got any ideas??

[joakwin]

when you replace the starter, check and make sure the flywheel don't have any bad spots

[Badboytunes]

^{Id say sticky starter too. Have an assistant try and start thecar while you tap the top the starter solenoid with a block of wood. If it starts to turn over, the starter is the issue}