UK Car Repair: audi a3 1.6l 1998 starter motor, transmission gearbox, audi a3

Question
hi i cant seem to start my car as it wont tick over . it has only happened today. i turned the lights on to check the battery . is ok but when i turn ignition on. the lights go out completely trying to start the starting motor . is this the starting motor which is at fault . or the circuit. thanks les

Answer
Hiya Les, There are three things which could be the cause of your woes. Battery, Alternator or starter. Will it start with a boost/jump start ? There is a small chance that the terminals are loose but the most likely cause is a dead battery. If you get it started, test the voltage at the battery when it is running, it should be 14.5v or more. If it is less then the alternator is not charging. is the car automatic or manual transmission/gearbox? you could try a push start if it is manual.

Let me know how it goes - Paul