My wife went to start the car this morning and the fob would not unlock the car. She used the key. Got in and turned the ignition over and nothing. There is also a constant very rapid clicking coming from under the hood. This ticking continues even if the key is out. I had her put the key back in and turn it just to stop the ticking. Could this be as simple as just needing a new battery? I live in the northern midwest so we have been really cold lately. I bout the car a little over a year ago and I don't know the age of the battery.

 

Yup, S-types do weird things when the batteries start to go bad.

 

Always suspect the battery. These cars draw tons of electrical power to properly operate so a strong battery is a necessity, especially in winter....

Pep Boys sells the appropriate vented Bosch battery for about $100. Check their website for battery coupons that may bring the cost down by $20 or so....

 

Yep, sounds like a failing battery.


Very easy to DIY replacement.

 

The battery is always the best assumption in a case like this. Take the battery out of the trunk and to your local auto parts store where they can test it for you and get you a replacement if you need one. If that doesn't do it then check the alternator as a possible cause.

 

Thanks for the replies. I agreed with all of you that this sounded battery related. HOWEVER, I put the new battery in last night and she started right up. 12 hours later she is dead. I have no after-market accessories equipped.

I would like to go over the details again. Yesterday (when the problem surfaced) my wife states that even though she removed the key there was still a rapid clicking sound coming from under the hood. She even videoed it for me. It sounded like a relay quickly clicking, again, even though the key was off and in her pocket.

I have scoured some posts this morning concerning battery drain on S-Types and I see a lot of reference to the ignition switch. I cannot take this car to a dealer. I am an average shade tree mechanic but not always that good with diagnosis. So, I guess I am asking for your expert opinions as to what my next "replacement" should be.

Thanks in advance. I have found so many answers here on this forum!

 

Re-charge battery for 12+ hours and see if car starts. Then switch off (remove key) and check battery drain over the next 40 mins. It should drop in jerks to about 50mA.

 

Identify the relay that's clicking.

 

Good point. Swap with another of same type.

May well be causing the drain you look to have - but test to check.