......my car won't start

[thecoolalhambra]

Hi All

Went to start my car (2001 Passat 130TDi) this morning and wouldn't!!

The engine turned over once then started to make some clicking sounds, the ABS light and the ESP light came on for a bit, but then went off.

The battery sign also came up (ans stayed on), then my 2 back doors locked (by themselves!!).

I have checked all my carpets and they are all dry, i have a feeling that my battery might be gone but just wanted to find out if anyone has experienced anything similar so that it may save me some time/effort for when I speak to the mechanic.

Thanks in advance for any help, it is much appreciated.

[caldirun]

Hi All

Went to start my car (2001 Passat 130TDi) this morning and wouldn't!!

The engine turned over once then started to make some clicking sounds, the ABS light and the ESP light came on for a bit, but then went off.

The battery sign also came up (ans stayed on), then my 2 back doors locked (by themselves!!).

I have checked all my carpets and they are all dry, i have a feeling that my battery might be gone but just wanted to find out if anyone has experienced anything similar so that it may save me some time/effort for when I speak to the mechanic.

Thanks in advance for any help, it is much appreciated.

I had similar problems when my battery ran down

[thecoolalhambra]

Thanks caldirun.

Did you go to a mechanic first? or diy?

Also, did you just replace your battery, or did you try charging it first?

Thanks

[Matelotman]

Replace the battery..... £70 ish I think

[caldirun]

Thanks caldirun.

Did you go to a mechanic first? or diy?

Also, did you just replace your battery, or did you try charging it first?

Thanks

Try charging it, if it takes a normal charge you may have a short somewhere or a faulty charging circuit, if it charges very quickly check the connections.

[thecoolalhambra]

thanks, will try charging it and see what happens.

[snapdragon]

This is what mine does when the battery is flat. Other cars I've had try and turn over slower and slower and the dash lights go dimmer, but the VW just clicks rapidly and the dash lights stay bright as though it knows not to bother powering up the starter. It confused me the first time.

[thecoolalhambra]

Thanks Snapdragon, did you just charge your battery or did you buy a new one?

Will i have any probs if i take the battery out for a while to charge? I have read a few posts where people have had probs when the battery is taken out! (mine is 2001 1.9tdi).

[caldirun]

Thanks Snapdragon, did you just charge your battery or did you buy a new one?

Will i have any probs if i take the battery out for a while to charge? I have read a few posts where people have had probs when the battery is taken out! (mine is 2001 1.9tdi).

If you know your radio code the only problem you will have is getting the battery out (an extension lead may be easier)