computrtutr

My car is a 2000TQM, ATW. A few weeks ago, I noticed that under heavy load, the battery light would flicker- I chalked it up to a failing tensioner and put it on the list. I was driving today and the HVAC shut off, the CEL and Battery(red) lights came on, and then it recovered, when I hit the gas. The battery light stayed on, and I was able to drive for another 5 minutes and park the car. I looked under the hood, and the belts look good. When I turn the key, the lights don't dim or anything and I get a loud "CLICK", but the starter does not sound like it's engaging or turning, and the engine doesn't turn over. Is this likely to be the starter? it doesn't sound like the battery or alternator, but I'm not 100% sure. Please advise!
Thanks!

4bagels

I'd probably disconnect the battery, and check the connections of some of the heavier gauge wires in the engine bay. Maybe disconnect them, clean them up and reconnect.

Some that jump to mind are the heavy ground wire that goes by the passenger side motor mount, and all the heavy connections to/from the battery, starter, and alternator.

Can't hurt to check those before spending any money

MTykhnenko

Driver side, under steering column is a panel held by 2 bolts, take it off, under that you will see 7-8 connectors with bolts on them connected to fuses and relays, one of those bolts is 99% likely loose.

turbo510

On '96/'97 at least, there are four screws that hold the kick panel on; one behind the fuse cover, and two behind plastic trim that must be pulled out.

Next, don't try to tighten any of these nuts without disconnecting the battery first. There's too much chance of shorting serious current on these connections.

I think that I'd get that battery tested, too, or at least try disconnecting that one and try to start the car on another.

MTykhnenko

My bad, you're right, but its not 4, its 3. I missed the one in the fusebox.
Very true.

turbo510

[QUOTE=MTykhnenko;24031929]My bad, you're right, but its not 4, its 3. I missed the one in the fusebox.
QUOTE]

On my car there is a forth screw at the right edge of the kick panel.

MTykhnenko

[QUOTE=turbo510;24031969]Very weird. I took apart countless audis (I own a 96 a4 myself, with a swapped engine from an s4) and it was always 3... Except jettas, they had a good 6.