Problem starting VT

[Melissa]

Hi guys

I've had some problems with my VT not wanting to start.

I originally thought it was the battery because it sounded a bit sluggish when I started it over the last few weeks. I checked the battery voltage (on the dash - don't have a multimeter). When the car is running, it's 14.2, when off it's 11.4. The light on the battery is green too. We have been able to jump start the car a few times, but that doesn't always work, so now I don't think the battery is causing the problem. Both the battery and alternator are less than a year old.

I know that my ignition switch has been broken for ages - had to manually turn the key back after starting the car. Could this be the problem? Does anyone have any other ideas?

Thanks.

[accentstencil]

Possibly the starter motor or dirty or loose connections.

[JoeFish]

Make sure that the correct size battery was installed, and also the correct Alternator.

Maybe check if the Alternator wiring is in good condition, I had to get the wiring re done on mine because it was corroded badly.

Or like the guy said above, could be starter motor and bad leads.

[Melissa]

Thanks guys

Is it possible to have the starter motor tested? When i try starting it, I can hear what I think is the starter motor making a 'click' sound, then nothing. Other times it sounds like the starter motor is spinning, but only when it's being jump started.

eta: I asked my other half a few days ago if it could be the starter & he said there was no way it could be that. He's never wrong, so thats why I didn't mention it in my original post...

[JoeFish]

Hhi Milissa,
When your battery is dead and you try to start it, it will make some ticking noises as it tries to turn over - but can't. But I'm defiantly no mechanic so don't take what i say as solid information.

But i think it would have to be your alternator or something like that because if it starts ok when you're being jump started, than it all comes back to Your car not having enough power to turn over.

I say just go down to an auto eleccy and show them your problem and they should know whats wrong and quote you. Don't let them suck you into getting it fixed by them if you can do it yourself though haha.

Ta

[Melissa]

lol thanks Joe. My dad told me to do the same thing yesterday - take her to the auto elec, play dumb and ask for a quote, never to return! I'd feel a bit bad doing that I think!

Anyway, I have a brand new starter motor - that wasn't the problem. I had the battery checked - it's not that. If the alternator was buggered, the battery wouldn't hold the charge, would it?

I'm still thinking ignition switch, or something in that area - the locksmith had to replace my barrel under warranty AGAIN, and I'm pretty sure he purposely broke everything he could. I know the spring in the switch it broken and has been for some time, so I'll replace it anyway and see what happens! :-)

[mr031]

I would feel bad doing that lol, sounds like a bad connection, if your hearing a click sound.

[ispeed]

Had the same problem with my vt. it was rotten earth cables.

[rockie]

hi

best way around it is go to a mechnic who has a computer conection and can do a diagnostics on your car try k mart they do it and i heard there cheap
this will help find your problem and stop all the running around your doing ring them first and ask how much to do it i know lube mobile do it but they
charge about 100 dollars hope this helps you

regards
rockie

[Melissa]

ispeed - thanks, will have to check it out.

rockie - thanks mate. Will have it tested as soon as the bank balance allows it!

I've just noticed that when the car wont start, the stereo needs to be reset in the same way it does after the battery has been disconnected, even though the battery hasn't been touched!

[cmarico]

If that's the case then there is either a loose cable or you are losing charge completely.

Go to Autobarn/Repco. I don't remember, but one of them offers a free battery testing service. They test your battery voltage and draw, and see if there is something that may be draining the battery while the car is turned off.

Cheers.

[Melissa]

ispeed - is that the cable that goes from the negative terminal and is bolted on to the car? Did you have the same problem with your stereo? What's it cost for a new one of those?

[ispeed]

My mechanic replaced the one to the starter. Heat from the headers I think he said degrades the cable. Stops big amperage getting through. I.e. starting car.
Apparently it's common.
Cost wasn't much about $40.00 on top of a standard service.

[Melissa]

Hi guys

Just thought I'd let you know what the problem was - the ignition barrel! It wasn't going back to the right position after turning the car off & removing the key, and this was somehow draining the battery to the point where there was not enough power to get the car started.

I'm pretty P'd off about it. I only recently had the ignition replaced, and then fixed again under warranty. Dodgy buggers.

Thanks again to you all for your help