Possible Elec Issue - Not Starting

[Scooblitz]

Hadn't used the Z for about 6 days and was about to head out for a trip to the shops. Open the car like i used to do with the old M44 with the key and not the key fob. Set off the alarm then turned it off with the fob. Back to normal.

Went to start the car, all lights are on and only 'clicking' when it's trying to ignite. Left her for another day

Just tried this morning and the keyfob for the alarm is no longer opening the car, however the side indicator lights seem to be illuminating briefly. Unlocked the car manually with the key as it wasn't opening under its own power. No alarm. Key in ignition and all of the lights are very faded and there isn't even any clicking now.

First thought it was a starter motor issue. Now it could be immobiliser alarm or battery...

Battery terminals look clean and as they should.

Have i just got a flat battery?

 

[t-tony]

Sounds like a flat battery to me. If you have some jump leads, attach to both cars and start the running car and leave it running for a few minutes to put some power into the Z before trying to start it.

Tony.

 

[Scooblitz]

@t-tony If i manage to get it to start, is it best to take it for a drive and get some juice back in it or is it best to get it charged or a new one?

 

[Redline]

Check the battery terminals are tight. Loose terminals can cause lots of phantom problems.

 

[t-tony]

@t-tony If i manage to get it to start, is it best to take it for a drive and get some juice back in it or is it best to get it charged or a new one?

I would charge the battery over night. Then leave it to stand for an hour and then if you have a voltmeter test the voltage across the terminal posts, NOT on the clamps/connectors. Circa 12.5 to 13V is ok. Start the engine and while idling check the voltage again on the posts.looking for around 13.8V. Then switch on headlights , heater blower (full speed), HRW if applicable. Check voltage again it will be lower 12.8 - 13.2 ish. Get someone to raise the revs up to around 2,000 rpm and reading should go up to 13.8 - 14.00V. if the alternator is charging properly.

Tony.

 

[Stevo7682]

Hope you get sorted out Stevie sorry I'm away at the moment and can't assist you on this occasion.

 

[Scooblitz]

Had the car linked up to my neighbours car and gave it a go a few times. Had a few goes at starting her up. We have enough power for electrics, alarm etc but when trying to fire the car up, it doesn't seem to have enough. Perhaps it needs slightly more to get it to start. Can't ask my neighbour again so i need to wait till my flatmate is home to give it another go which won't be till tomorrow. Didn't rev my neighbours car and it was only idling when charging.

At least the clicking sound is back and it did sound like the solenoids we're firing. I still think its a battery issue at the moment and the complete lack of juice in the battery is not allowing it to start the engine.

 

[Oddly Godly]

Sounds like the battery, Cars often start as soon as you turn them over these days so you don't notice the battery is on its way out. On my last car the battery was going for two years but as long as it was used every couple of days it was fine. Some tyre and exhaust places will test a battery for free I believe. Its worth having it checked just in case its the alternator.

 

[Scooblitz]

I might be a touch ahead of myself before knowing exactly what is wrong but if the battery is on the way out and not holding any charge i can get a good price on a Yuasa Silver battery with 760cca (which seems to be important). 5 year warranty etc for £93 and it's in stock for collection 1.5 miles down the road. Seems good.

Any experience with Yuasa?

 

[Jack Ratt]

Yuasa were really popular for motorcycle batteries

 

[Redline]

Yuasa were really popular for motorcycle batteries

They are a well known brand and have produced batteries used in industry and communications for many years.

 

[t-tony]

We sold Yuasa batteries where I used to work supplied by Andrew Page (Lincoln). I have one on my Z4. I think you could do better on price if you shop around though.

Tony.

 

[mrscalex]

Jumping a car won’t always work if your battery is flat enough. Did your friend lift the revs up to 2.5-3k to provide a higher boost?

You can also give it another nudge along with a battery jumper pack and that’s if the jumper pack doesn’t work on it’s own. They look tiny to start a car but a decent one is very effective.

 

[Scooblitz]

Went along to get a battery today and the shop was closed. Got a bit excited and didn't read the opening times. Went to another local retailer and the deal proposed wasn't what i was looking for. Entry level battery with 2yr warranty form Yuasa for £85 it was also smaller than i was anticipating. Not sure what specs are needed for the car, i don't doubt that the battery supplied by the motor factor isn't right but im going to spend the money. Might as well buy a quality item.

Recommendations on postcard.

 

[mrscalex]

https://zroadster.org/threads/quali...r-varta-77ah-silver-dynamic-for-£56-99.21689/

Price is up to £70 (plus postage) now. But for the quality it's still a good price. 096 is the size/type you need anyway. You can get away with a smaller size on a 1.9 engine but not worth it in my view.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/133102895512