If jump start is OK is it just the battery?

[DanMac]

Hi Folks,
Bought my first 'lingo a few months back, mostly because I'm sick of paying mechanics and heard they were easier to maintain for mechanical idiots like me

Been having trouble starting it since the cold weather set in, and the past few days it won't start at all. Just a single coughing/"wronk" sound then nothing.

My question is, if it starts successfully with a jump from a mate is that a clear indication the battery is the problem? Or could it be something else?

I've got a mate coming over to give me a jump start shortly, just wondering if that works if my next stop should be halfords to buy a battery to fit myself in the car park, or if I should head to a mechanics for a proper diagnosis?

Any words of wisdom appreciated, cheers!

---

BTW, it's an '02 1.4 petrol. Just had the timing belt replaced which I wouldn't have thought mattered but seen another thread here where someone had a ton of trouble starting after a timing belt replacement so thought I'd mention it...

[3rensho]

It if runs fine after a jump start then I'd suspect either the battery or the battery charging circuit (alternator). Check the voltage across the battery terminals with the engine running (and no jump start connection to another vehicle). Should be about 14.4 volts is memory serves. If it's less I'd check the alternator. Basically two potential problems - battery bad and can't hold a charge or alternator is not up to charging the battery.

[DanMac]

Great stuff, thanks for your help. Managed to snag a meter from a friend and it was 8ish so got a jump start and new battery. Cheers!

Next question will be why my heater vents are smoking but I'll try and dig through the hayes manual and have a bash myself first

[stuartinlancashire]

It could be could be steam you can see coming from the heater vents, perhaps the heater matrix is leaking. I believe replacement is not an easy job as the dash has to come out. It could also possibly be be exhaust fumes being sucked through the ventilation system.

[ffrenchie]

It might be the voltage controller for the heater motor speed getting hot and smoking, they do that before they pack up altogether.

[j90xxx]

As a general rule 12.5v with engine off and 14.5v with engine running is a good battery voltage and good alternator output.
The link below is a cheap and cheerful way of checking battery/alternator, if you don't have a meter.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/BATTERY-ALTERN...589def204b