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Question

Hi,

I have just bought an mercedes A170 CDI a week ago. It is an X reg. I last used it on Wednesday and it started and ran fine. Today it won't start. When I turn the key to position 2 all the usual lights come on and you can here the heater plugs working, when the heater plug light goes out and try to start the engine it doesn't even turn over the engine, just makes a clicking noice. I've tried it with both keys in case it is the immobiliser, but both keys do the same thing.

If it is the immobiliser I have a small reset key, but I don't know where I would need to put it. there does not appear to be any warning lights.

Thanks in advance...

Submitted: 63 days ago.
Category: UK Car
Value: $15
Status: AWAITING CUSTOMER ACTION

Answer

Hi

 

Welcome to Just Answer

 

It sounds to me as though the battery is low on power.

The clicking indicates that the starter system is functioning and sending power to the starter motor exciter connection.

You need to jump start the car, if it starts, then it was a flat battery.

The next step is to get the alternator and battery checked, a quick check of the alternator is to switch on as many electrical componants as possible whilst the engine is running, if the lights are dim then the alternator may not be charging.

Next get the battery checked, most garages can do a drop check, and most don't charge for this.

If the car wont start from a jump start, check all the wiring to the starter motor from the battery, and the earth connections to the engine and gearbox from the battery and the car body, also check the battery terminals for security, any loose wires will stop enough power getting to the starter motor.

If the car does not start from a jump start and the wires are all good, then it could be a sticking starter motor, to diagnose this for sure, the starter will need to be removed and bench tested.

 

Hope this helps

 

Regards

 

Trev

Picture
Expert: Trevor Witting
Pos. Feedback: 98.9 %
Accepts: 
Answered: 9/20/2009

UK Car Mechanic

NVQ 3, Modern Apprenticeship, MOT Tester, 14 years experience working on all makes and models

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