Ford Focus (1998 - 2004) - 01 1.6 Starting problems

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Sat 10 Jan 2009 21:55
01 1.6 Starting problems - oscar6161
Dear Forum,

Just tried to start my Ford Focus (petrol engine) and I'm having problems. Headlights, Interior Lights and CD work fine but there's a continual 'clicking sound' when I turn the ignition with no eveidence that the engine wants to fire...the dashboard lights come on and off in sync with this sound.

I did turn the car over for around 5 mins two days ago (due to the severe cold weather) and she started fine, the car has been sat idle since then.

Any help greatly appreciated.
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Sun 11 Jan 2009 08:28
01 1.6 Starting problems - elekie&a/c doctor
Sounds like your battery has expired.Is it the original from new?
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Sun 11 Jan 2009 09:28
01 1.6 Starting problems - oscar6161
Hi and thanks for the reply...

I think it's the original battery.......I know nothing about car mechanics, is it the case that the ignition draws a certain about of power (that my battery hasn't got) but there's enough in the system to work the lights and CD player? I ask this as they are working fine...

Other suggestions point towards the starter motor/solenoid......I was thinking about this furher last night and I do recall that on a couple of occassions, when starting, there's been a slight judder before she fired up.....does this clue help a little further?

Thanks for any advice
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Sun 11 Jan 2009 12:12
01 1.6 Starting problems - oscar6161
All sorted........was an old battery finally killed off by the cold
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