iball 0 Report post Posted September 18, 2008 Guys got an issue starting my e46 - the ignnition comes on (radio works etc) however ther is just a clicking noise when I try starting the car. I have jumped started the car and driven around for 20 minutes or so, but when I switch it off, it just clicks again. Not sure if its the battery (flat or completely stuffed), or the altenator not charging the battery at all? Any thoughts? Cheers Iball Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
greenday-rulz21 4 Report post Posted September 18, 2008 When you jump start it and drive around the alternator should charge enough for it to start the engine again. Or at least that was the case with my e36. When I had to jump start mine I took it for a good long 45 minute drive and that seemed to charge it enough. Although a 20 minute drive should give it sufficient time to charge enough. I would personally take it straight into BMW, I messed around for a couple of days, then when I took it in there was no saving the 10 year old original battery. Although thats only if its the battery! (Sorry, I think aloud) If theres a problem with the alternator not charging, a light will come up on the dash. Like so: Hope thats of some help, Nick Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Mark 178 Report post Posted September 19, 2008 Call the AA if you're a member, or jump start the car again and drive to a nearby Auto sparky. They can do a couple of quick tests to determine if the battery is holding a charge and if the alternator is working properly. Most likely it will be your battery that has given up the ghost. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
elmarco 56 Report post Posted September 22, 2008 +1 Smells like a dead battery to me. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
