Hi, so I have been driving the car all day, probably turned the engine on and off again a dozen times. Went to go out an hour ago in the car and nothing. All electrics are working but no start, not even turning over or even any clicks. I did notice both battery terminals where loose. I tightened both up but still no start. Any ideas please?

 

Hi Rob,
Check the terminal voltage at the battery to see what you have.

My advice would be to fully charge the battery anyway. While that is happening, go around and check the grounds in case any of those have come loose.

 

Yes the battery is on charge now. will leave it on charge overnight and see what happens in the morning.

 

So put battery back on car after an overnight charge. Still not starting. All lights are out on dash except engine check light which I never had before. When I turn the key the airbag light comes on. The electrics are working except headlights and wipers. Interior lights not working either. All very strange. What could this possibly be??

 

Did you measure the battery after charging?

 

From what you are describing Rob I would say your battery is knackered.

If you have access to a spare, try that first.

Also check the main power fuses in the boot, small black box in the spare wheel well.

 

Thanks for chiming in, appreciate it. I have tried a battery from different car. It's a Bosch battery so I know it's a good one, not as big as the Jag battery though. When I turn the key the volt meter on the dash goes to about 11. Have checked all the fuses, all appear to be OK.

 

Ignore the volt meter on the dash. It is a digital representation.

You need to check with a multi meter to be sure of what you have.

 

So would a battery just die like that. Appear fine one minute and then just die the next? Don't have a multi meter, need to get one perhaps.

 

It could have been on its way out for some time and now has finally gone.

To progress any further you need a known starting point and that means a fully charged battery and multi meter.

 

Just been to have the battery tested. The volt reading is 12.87v. 696EN (A). So I think the battery is good. Now really not sure where to look.

 

How did they check it? 12.87v sounds good but if they only checked it with a meter then they have only read the terminal voltage and the battery could still be bad.

in the meantime, check the engine ground points and then check the connectors on the engine and the engine control module to make sure they are clean and fully seated.

Also have a look at this

 

Hi Rob,
Came across this very old thread and you describe my current situation very well. Did you ever resolve your problem? (Assuming you're still an active member.)

Thanks!
John