intermittent starter problem

i have problems with ignition switching car on ok but not engaging starter on first turn of key , will engage on second or third attempt. This only happens after using car charger for laptop/ radio/internal light /boot light whilst car is switched off.It does not happen on every occasion when using power whilst switched off . The car is 2002 A4 1.9 Tdi 130 bhp

Asked on 7 August 2014 by john

Answered by Honest John

The car battery is not up to the job of supplying current for your laptop, then starting the car. Use the laptop's batteries, then recharge the laptop from the car's 12v socket while you are driving along. Long term you probably need a new car battery before the winter.

Tags: technical issues starting problem

Similar questions

Why is my diesel car emitting blue smoke upon starting up?

I have a 2007 Peugeot 207 1.6 HDI, with 83,000 clocked miles. Basically, the longer the car sits unused, the more blue smoke it puts out when it starts and also the harder it is to start (cranks slower...

Why does my 1969 Volkswagen Type 2 campervan struggle to start when warm?

I have a 1969 Volkswagen Type 2 campervan. It starts as sweet as a nut when it's cold, but once it's warm it struggles to tick over. Once running, it's fine. Any ideas what the problem is?

Is the clicking noise when I turn my key indicative of a broken starter motor?

When I turn the ignition key, the lights come on the dashboard but there's just a clicking noise and the engine doesn't turn. I've charged the battery using a battery starter as it hadn't been driven in...