Help me please, my car wont start. When i turn the key it starts to turn the engine but it can't (like the battery is flat) it then makes a fast clicking noise (solenoid?) I don't think the battery is flat however, as it is new and shouldn't be going flat. BUT when i charged the battery it started, but it took a while to jumpstart it with another car. Also once i have started and driven it for a bit it starts easily for the rest of the day. If the battery is flat what is draining it. Whats going on? thanks in advance

Alan, Australia

 

I had 280 that had a problem with the battery because of a alarm that was installed. The person that installed it connected the power directly to the battery. If you have just recently added any electrical accesories make sure they are wired to the fuse box.

Warren

 

you might want to make sure the engine light is not on. I had a bad bulb and when me and some friends were working on it someone played with the switch. It took 2 batteries and a lot of foul language to finnally fix it. just a thought.

Shane Morton 78 280Z owner.
Z me go - Z me show - Z me gone

 

well that kinda happened to me and it was my battery regualtor, wats the volts on the voltmeter when u are driving... it is around 14 15 then it is fine... if it is around 12 then check the alternator and regulator,

<font color=blue>76 260z</font color=blue>
The NiteRider

 

I agree with Z! Mine does the same 14 or better driving and if it hits 10 when I start it I need to add water to the battery. If it's below 10 give it up. Are your lights yellow? Running poorly? When you do get it running turn all accessorie off and note the volt meter reading. Then start turing on all accesories one by one and note the meter each time. If the battery reads less than 12-14 dcv charging is required. If a charged battery won't keep your car functioning it's probably the alternator. Also try bypassing the ignition switch by going straight to the starter as they do wear out.

 

THe car has an ammeter, so i don't know the volts...
I did just have an alarm installed and it wasn't doing it before, is the alarm draining the battery?

Alan, Australia

 

I had a similar problem - turned out to be the ignition switch was burnt out in one spot, causing the start cct to go open when attempting to crank.

PS
If you want a good sparky to check it out, speak with Ashley @ Auto Instrument Services (11 Dequetteville Tce) & tell him that I sent you.