Clicking Noise on Start Up

[BatleyBoy]

Got a loud clicking noise coming from under the bonnet.

It sounds like a contact on and off, and only happens when the car is started. It happens for 10 seconds or so and then stops.

It’s coming from the near side, somewhere around the top of the bonnet very, near the wing.

Sorry the description is a bit vague, but has anyone any thoughts on the problem and a remedy?

Cheers. BB

[andytuscrr]

I can't think what could be clicking over the front/near-side of the engine bay unless it's something to do with the heater. Have you got the aircon switched on?

Andy

[s6boy]

As that sounds close to the battery and there have been some electrical issues recently is it a clicking or arcing noise. Not likely if it stops after a while but worth checking.

[BatleyBoy]

andytuscrr said:

I can't think what could be clicking over the front/near-side of the engine bay unless it's something to do with the heater. Have you got the aircon switched on?

Andy

No aircon on the car Andy.

Actually you dont have to start the car, as it does it when I switch the ignition on?

[S6PNJ]

When the ignition is switched on, the heater stepper motor normally does its 'thing' which is very much in the location you have described. What happens when you change the heater control (without the engine on but with ignition on)? If it's the stepper motor, there are plenty of threads on here about getting to it and changing it - certainly easier without air-con you'll be pleased to hear!

[BatleyBoy]

S6PNJ said:

When the ignition is switched on, the heater stepper motor normally does its 'thing' which is very much in the location you have described. What happens when you change the heater control (without the engine on but with ignition on)? If it's the stepper motor, there are plenty of threads on here about getting to it and changing it - certainly easier without air-con you'll be pleased to hear!

Interesting. I will have a search on Heater Stepper Motor.

Cheers

[Whitey]

I concur, it's the heater stepper motor plastic cogs are worn and making the noise. I made it as far as about to remove the heater matrix box cover thing, and realised I needed some black mastic, so put it back together, that was the end of the winter, so I guess I'd better sort it soon.

If anyone does this job, please take photos and post them up!

[andytuscrr]

I need to do mine too - only blows cold air. I got as far as taking the 4 screws out that hold the box/cover in place but didn't want to force it out of the bulkhead - which is apparently what I need to do....I'll get around to it soon now that the colder weather is coming in,

In the meantime, like Whitey says, if anyone does it themselves pictures would be great

Andy