A month back I came out to start my 98 disco and when i turned the key over it would take a good 5 seconds before the engine even started to crank. Upon taking it to the mechanic they told me the starter, battery and alternator all were in good shape and the fuel filter was the cause of the problem (not getting fuel through the lines before the key was completely turned over). I had the filter replaced and the problem went away.

I came out to start my disco today, turned the key over, heard the crank and then it stopped mid start and began to click...such as a low battery would do. I pulled the key out and tried again and the car started just fine. anyone have any idea as to what would cause the click seeing that my battery and all other components are still is still in good shape?

thanks again.

 

Just a common Rover thing.
Until it becomes a all the time thing not much you can do.

 

Lovely =) I thought I would take it upon myself to check the connections on my starter but had no clue how tough it is to get passed the heat shield. any recommendations? I also checked all the connections coming from my battery like the ground and whatnot but cant seem to find anything fishy. I followed the + cable all the way to the starter but like said i couldnt see much except for the cable going behind the heat shield along with a smaller orange wire...the only reason i know it's orange is because the black protective coating has worn away....

 

There really is nothing you can do at this point as it could be almost anything.
A bad ground, bad starter, bad alarm...
When it does it the engine turns over fine but wont start?
Or it wont turn over?
I just want to make sure that I fully understand what is going on.

 

sorry spike i guess i could of been a little more clear.
- I turned the key over and the engine cranked over just like usual but as soon as the crank started (maybe a second into it) It stopped and I instantly heard the dreaded clicking noise (just like a bad/dead battery would make).

I then took the key out, put it back in, turned it over and it started right up....strange, i know. I just had my battery tested and found out it's about toast. That also could be the reason but I found it odd that it started right up the second try.

 

Ok, that is more clear.
Yeah sounds like a bad battery to me too.

 

sounds like it has to do with low cranking amps.

 

so in laymans terms a spent battery like spike said?

 

Yes, battery - cranking amps are the peak power outputs a battery can produce when properly charged and in good condition - Most places that sell batteries can tell you how much battery you need (if not two, extra fog lights, winch...) It may also be a good idea to have your altinator checked out, to make sure its properly charging your battery