E36 323 won't start

[peter-2006]

When I try to start the car all the normal lights light up then go out but when I turn the key I get nothing not even a click. The battery and oil light go out when I turn the key too. Had the car on charge to day so I know its not the battery. I used the car yesterday and had no problems started as normal.

Can anyone tell me what it might be?
Thanks.

Edited by peter-2006 on Thursday 6th December 16:08

[Ravell]

peter-2006 said:

When I try to start the car all the normal lights light up then go out but when I turn the key I get nothing not even a click. The battery and oil light go out when I turn the key too. Had the car on charge to day so I know its not the battery. I used the car yesterday and had no problems started as normal.

Can anyone tell me what it might be?
Thanks.

Edited by peter-2006 on Thursday 6th December 16:08

Battery might no longer be able to hold a charge. If not sealed, check the fluid level and if needed top up with distilled water.

Silly question probably, but did you check the fusebox?

[Speed addicted]

Possible bad earth on the starter? I'd check the battery first.

[peter-2006]

checked the battery and all the fuses but all ok. Have tried moving around wires on the starter too.

[Romanymagic]

Tried a hammer on the starter casing (old school I know, but maybe, just maybe the starter motor has jammed due to cold weather etc.)?

[RichBurley]

Change the battery. Buy a high output one. Matter resolved.

[The old fella]

Try earthing the engine straight to the chassis with a jump lead, also take the battery terminals off and clean them up, The hammer on the starter may sound a little agricultural but the theory is good, if you can get something solid down to the starter motot and give it a 'little tap' you may get it to turn, if that works replace the starter before it lets you down properly.

Graham

[peter-2006]

Sorted now. Turns out it was the battery. It was a BMW one that had a date of 07/2006 on so don't think it should have gone so quickly. The battery indicator was still green too.