starting problem?? help please new mini owner

[pecotrain82]

hi there i bought a mini cooper 51plate from auction. it got dropped off yesterday but no go.
the battery was flat so i charged it and went to start it there's a clicking rely sound from the fuse box on the passenger side and the needles on the speedo and rev counter shake? Can some one please help. Cheers Russ

[Justin S]

Is the battery 'actually' good now you have charged it? Could it have a dropped cell?

[pecotrain82]

hi there would that cause the same problems? the car does look like its been stood for awhile you could be on to something with that.

[Callyuk]

Easiest way to try it is to connect it up withh jump leads or battery pack see if you still have the same problem if you do then the battery is not at fault

[pecotrain82]

Hi there cheers for that. I tried a different battery last night still no joy.

[Bugeyeandy]

Could be the starter solenoid is seized, give the starter motor a few gentle thumps with a hammer while someone else tries to start the car.

Faulty power steering pumps on these are also common causes of battery drains, turn on the ignition and listen under the front of the car. It should only run when the engine is running, if it's running all the time it can be enough to stop the engine starting.

Did you hear and see the car running/driving at auction or did you buy it as a non runner?

[Bugeyeandy]

Also, is the battery you put in a new one of the right type and capacity? Can you jump start it?

[pecotrain82]

I didn't see the car before buying. My mistake. I'll check it out. Is the relays clicking and shaky needles could be down to a battery drain? I really apreciate everyones help

[Bugeyeandy]

Relays clicking and needles flickering usually means there isn't enough juice to power them properly.

It's also worth checking the battery earth lead is properly attached and that the connection on the starter is clean and tight as any problems in these two areas will give you problems.

Lastly, you can put the car in gear and rock it back and forth a bit. Then take it out of gear and try to start it again, this will free off the starter if it's stuck on.

[pecotrain82]

Cheers I'll give it ago its raining at the min but as soon as it stops I'll try it. The cover for the diagnostic plug was down which makes me think that its something more serious the simplist solution is normally the answer so I'll give it ago. Cheers

[Bugeyeandy]

Mmm, that doesn't sound promising! Best to start with the basics first though and go from there.