4200 CC Spyder Starting Problems

[Jim]

Help please from the huge knowledge database out there.
Yesterday I went to give my car a run as it has been unused for about a month (it did have a CTEK battery conditioner connected all that time). She started fine but it was evident something was binding as I had no movement. Thinking it was probably the brakes I gave it a rock in first gear. After 3 or 4 goes there was a thump & I thought goodo but the engine stalled at the same time.
Since then I have been unable to start the engine. I tried a battery reset several times before giving up last evening.
I have had the battery on the CTEK overnight & it shows fully charged this morning but still no joy.
The gearbox is in 1st & will not select anything else on the paddles. On one attempt the gear indicator was flashing but it only happened the once. The pump is running as it should when opening the door.
I am guessing a relay or fuse has probably blown - I HOPE it's not any more than that as I'm into a new clutch before the better weather comes!! Any ideas which one it would be??
Resolution for 2014 - drive it more often even if it's raining!!
All ideas gratefully received. Tks

 

[CatmanV2]

Does it turn over at all?

Did you leave the handbrake on while it was parked up?

C

 

[Parisien]

Battery could well be done even with trickle charging ( how old is it?), plus as Cman notes hand brakes known to seize and then fall to bits inside drum and jam it.

Check all connections, clean and re-tighten, inspection and tighten earths


P

 

[Jim]

Thanks for replying so quickly. To answer your questions:-

No it doesn't turn over at all.

No the handbrake was off while it was parked up - I think a see some movement at the wheels when I rock it manually.

 

[Jim]

Many thanks.
I don't know how old the battery is as I have only had the car about 9 months.
If I try to start with the headlights on they do not dim so I think there is plenty in the battery.

 

[Chrisbassett]

If I understand correctly, you can't select neutral using the paddles and there is no sound from the starter at all when you turn the key to the start position with your foot on the brake pedal, but no warning lights visible?

 

[marios kriticos]

Jim ,
Replace your battery and the car will start
Marios

 

[conaero]

It would appear the car is stuck in first and hence it will not start. Marios is usually right so take his advice first.

Failing that something is jammed

 

[Jim]

Thanks Chris. The Engine warning light is on along with the handbrake light (obviously). No sound from the starter at all.

 

[Jim]

Thanks Marios, As I can't get a battery today can I use a starter pack or will that damage some electrics?

 

[Jim]

Thanks Conaero, Do you know if there is a specific relay / fuse that could prevent gear selection.

 

[conaero]

Eurocarparts not open today? I bought an Excide one for £59, try their website and you can reserve and collect.

 

[CatmanV2]

If Marios says replace the battery, that's got to be a good place.

With the engine not trying to turn at all, I'd check the brake light switch as well, although can't see any real causal link. Wouldn't explain why you can't select any gears either

C

 

[Chrisbassett]

Just a thought but if the car doesn't think you have pressed the brake pedal (sensor broken?), it won't let you start the car in gear. Not sure why that would cause it to stop you selecting neutral though.

But Marios is the man to listen to.

 

[marios kriticos]

Just fit a new battery and buy a 100T from any Bosch dealer don't buy a cheap one .
Marios

 

[Jim]

Update - Marios was absolutely correct - many thanks Marios.
More info for all readers - I went with a Bosch S5 096 77ah (5 year warranty). Now here's the interesting bit. It has been said elsewhere but it think it is worth repeating:-
THE PRICE!
Eurocarparts - by phone = £106
Eurocarparts - by website = £97
Eurocarparts - by Ebay shop = £82

I checked the battery was in stock & then bought it through Ebay (click & collect). Got the confirmation within a couple of hours & had the battery by lunchtime.
I did need to give it a bit of a boost with the fast charger (about 15 mins) but she's starting properly again - making the most of the weather!!. The old battery was 64ah so hopefully I've got battery peace of mind now.

I'll be checking Eurocarparts more often from now on.