Starting Issues

[Guest grumps3]

Hi guys, new member here looking for help

My 2002 sx C3 is playing up on starting

In recent weeks on first key turn the engine does not fire and the radio clock and date go to zero, the child lock kicks in and illuminates.

Second key turn and the engine fires up ok, or it did until today.

The engine fails to start now and the above happens plus the wipers activate and the headlights flash once.

I have tested the battery with a volt meter and get a reading of 12v. I have disconnected the -ve and +ve treminals, cleaned around them and reconnected. Car still refuses to start. Im assuming the battery is ok given the volt meter reading? any ideas ?

Thanks in advance

[Johndouglas]

I have tested the battery with a volt meter and get a reading of 12v.

 

You should have a reading of 12.5 volts at least to start. I think all the trouble is caused by a 'duff' battery.

[paul.h]

This has happened to our C3 1.4 sx petrol this cold weather. Have you also been getting 3 beeps on starting which is a warning of a low battery voltage. Ours was about 12.2 volts at the battery which classes as only part charged (see Haynes, 12.5 is normal). Anyway, removed it and charged it up to 12.6 volts (in the warm house) and is ok now. I have looked at replacing the battery in case it fails. The standard installed is a 300 amp one and most replacements are 400 to 500 amps - have a look at eurocarparts.

[Guest grumps3]

Cheers guys.

Went to a garage which a pal of my brother owns and had the battery tested. The meter indicated that the battery was indeed a duffer.

New one fitted for 40 notes and labour free

[Guest womble]

Sounds like a fair price to me.

 

Think the snow and ice is thawing a bit here in Stoke on Trent today but the sub-zero temperatures we have been having will test the mettle of any battery!!!