Guest gt6jim Posted October 11, 2007 Firstly, I've read a heap of starting trouble threads, and think mine is slightly different, so may warrant a new thread. Secondly, Hi, just got in in my (new) 1.6 GTi, it started fine at the previous owners, several times, but on my drive it won't have it. I get a clicking solenoid, dimming lights (high current draw) but no turning. Additionally when sitting at idle and I turn the wheel or push the brake the solenoid seems to chatter a bit, and the lights flash! What might also be related is, the full beam switch is broken, it won't hold, but they do come on when you pull the switch. When doing this at idle the battery light comes on and the revs die slightly. My first 'modern' but I'm used to all the (simpler) electrics on my Triumph! So what do we think? Earths? Starter? Battery? Cheers, Jim! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
brianthemagical 1 Posted October 11, 2007 try the earths, starter, battery and alternator. check battery has 12v and that it's gotwater in,then check voltages everywhere there needed. most likely battery or alternator. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest gt6jim Posted October 12, 2007 Could a flat battery result in the solenoid closing, but the starter not turning? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
brianthemagical 1 Posted October 13, 2007 i think so, low current to close the solenoid and engage the high current starter, which then drops the voltage too low to turn the starter. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sussex_gti 0 Posted October 13, 2007 Sounds possibly like a bad earth. Have you tried running a jump lead from the negative terminal of the battery to the engine? Will eliminate a poor earth. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
