5 replies to this topic

[Rovobor]

Hey all,

I’ve recently taken on a Mini Mayfair 1992. When I try to start it, it just clicks even when trying to jump start it. The battery seems to drain, anything ideas?

Any other general advice for a non mechanic as well?

Thanks!

[nicklouse]

Dead battery, dead alternator. 

[red81]

If it just clicks and doesn't turn the engine it could be a stuck solenoid, try a screw driver across the two connectors on top of the solenoid. Battery not holding its charge Nick has the two options unless you have something draining the battery e.g bulb or CD player permanently on.

[Clip]

Swap out old battery with one that you know is ok as jump starting can be notoriously unreliable. If still not starting, check positive cable on starter solenoid and earth cable on battery (but unlikely if it is clicking in).

[Ethel]

If it just clicks and doesn't turn the engine it could be a stuck solenoid, try a screw driver across the two connectors on top of the solenoid. Battery not holding its charge Nick has the two options unless you have something draining the battery e.g bulb or CD player permanently on.

 

Won't work on a pre-engaged starter, unless you engage the solenoid first. Unlikely it'll work even if you - the clicking is the solenoid falling out as soon as the motor is engaged because there's not enough oomph from the battery.

[Ethel]

The battery is defo suspect. If it has an internal short  the jumper battery could be boiling it rather than spinning the motor.

 

 

Like Clip says, a known good battery will allow fault checking of the other components at least...

 

Headlight brightness is a rough & ready general indicator of faults in the battery connections - as is the indicator flash speed if it has an old school flasher unit.