Starting problems. Is it the starter motor?

I went to the car yesterday and it refuses to start. It is a new battery, all the dash lights light up so dont think it is a power problem also all the wires are connected.
I also hear the relay clicking when the key is turned. I had a similar problem a couple of weeks ago and to my relief the wire had came off the starter so was an easy fix thats why i think its the starter. Just nothing happens doesnt turn over at all.
Am i right on my ossumption of the starter and if not what could be the problem.

I was down today and tried the old hitting the starter with a hammer nothing. also tried putting it in reverse and rocking the car to free the starter off but also nothing.

Hobo

I'd double check the battery, perhaps stick a charger on it for 5 minutes and try to start the car then. It might be a new battery but if you have an alternator that's not putting out enough voltage it will drain pretty quickly.

I had this happen on a Metro years back and was convinced it was the starter so swapped it for a new one, the problem was still there and it turned out to be corroded alternator connections putting out a low voltage to the battery.

Have you got a multimeter/voltage meter?

Check the exciter (red/black) wire at the starter motor, should have 12v when the key is turned to the start position.

Is it auto?  Have heard of similar when a car doesn't recognise it's in park (selector sensor).

Had it happen to mine too - you can also test the motor by connecting direct to the battery

can free up sticking solenoid - post on here somewhere about it

The car is a manual transmition. i am going to check the possibilities out tonight as i need someone to turn the key as i check the voltage etc.
Cheers for the ideas tho
Hobo

It's not uncommon for the ign switch to play up and give symptoms of a duff starter

Hi guys,
was out today armed with a diesel van, jump leads, spanners and the all important hammer.
I first went for the quick fix of the jump leads that gav had said check the battery. To my surprise when linked to the van to the golf she fired right up :roll: im not sure if it was the starter stuck and the extra battery got it goin or if the battery was duff. took it for a long drive to try to charge it a bit and will check tomorrow if dead again i will chech the voltage from the alternater is 12 v if this is right? if thats fine its a new battery is in order.

Thanks for your posts as without i would be gettin a new starter :redfaced:

Hobo