32i G plate refusing to start...any ideas much appreciated..

[Z3I]

My G plate 320i has just refused to start! Seemed ok on Saturday when I bought it, but just tried to start for 1st time since then and a relay just seems to judder. All the lights seem ok and bright when I turn on the ignition, but when I try to start all I get is a machine gun noise instead of the six starting up. Lights flicker at the same time, then come back on bright when I stop trying to start. Is it the battery or starter motor? Ideas much appreciated! Was going to take it to work tomorrow, but that seems off now

[wildeian]

Have you checked the battery and alternator to see if they are charging?

Also check the engine to chassis earth, this also gives the 'machine gun' affect like a knackered starter motor. It's on the front left of the engine near power steering pump.

[Z3I]

Thanks Wildeian, I'll take a look at those items.

[wildeian]

If you have a jump lead you can put one end on the neg of the battery, and the other on a good (clean metal, no paint) part of the engine, and try and start her.

It's a quick check and saves you getting your hands dirty!!

[Z3I]

Car had a new large 65ah batter 3 years ago, and has done 4000 miles since, and only 35000 in total. I'm thinking your bad earth might be the problem, but will try jump leads in the morning.

All a bit of a dissapointment really...

[gcorky]

Car had a new large 65ah batter 3 years ago, and has done 4000 miles since


dont mean a thing,its your starter solenoid chattering.
not enough power probably,either:due to earth fault as previous replies /or poor power connections.
battery goosed-which maywell be as a battery could do 100 miles a year and be knackered at 2 years old.,or battery may just be flat due to alt problem.or maybe a drain,int lights ,stereo etc....

try to jump it off and go from there.

[Z3I]

New battery today from Halfords has done the trick. well, at least it seems to have, I guess the next few days will tell.

Thanks for your help!