Help - My Chimaera Will Not Start

[Fat Chap]

After nearly a year with no problems my 97 5L Chimaera refused to start tonight.

Because of work/holiday the car has been left idle for 8 days. Previously used 2 to 3 times a week and has always started without problems.

The symptoms are:-
1. Key fob works the alarm and door opens
2. Instead of the usual crisp sound of the fuel pump priming there is a much quieter sound, but the priming cycle does seem to be completed. I tried it about 3 to 4 times and the same thing happened. On the last go there was a clicking from the fuel pump instead of the priming noise
3. Ignition light and oil light do not seem to be so bright as usual
4. Turn the ignition key to start the engine and nothing....

Is it the battery? I am going to try jump starting from my VW Golf tomorrow evening (following the instructions in the handbook and the 2nd Edition Bible). But, before I try that does anybody have any other suggestions.

Fat Chap

[T88CAN]

If the fuel pump sounds slow and dash lights dim slightly it sounds like battery to me it happens a lot when you use it once every blue moon (me)

[pies]

If you've got access to a battery charger i'd put the battery on charge

[nemasis]

you are correct it is a flat battery

[M@H]

Or ad dead battery as they only last 4-5 years really.. I went through this problem for a bit and charging really wasn't getting me far.. in the end £60 odd for a new battery sorted the car out nicely.

Matt

[Fat Chap]

Yes it was the battery. I jumped started the car yesterday and after a long run all now seems fine.

I now need to get one of those Optimate battery chargers that connect through the lighter socket. Any idea of where and how much.

Thanks
Fat Chap

[hut49]

Go to the TVR page at www.leventechnology.co.uk