When I try to start my 2006 Mini Cooper JCW, there is a loud clicking sound (more of a mechanical than electrical sound) but it won't start. When I quit turning the key, the headlights come on and then turn off by themselves and everything inside the car (radio, dome light, air vents, etc.) functions as it would with the key in the ignition but the engine off.

Ideas?

 

Dead battery. Been there, done that. Take the battery out, take it to your local FLAPS and have them test it for you. My local NAPA store had a replacement that was an exact fit for $117. But make sure you carefully compare as one of the two batteries they had listed to fit was not tall enough or quite shaped the right way.

 

One more thing. Once you remove the battery either leave the hatch open or put a rag over the locking mechanism so that the hatch will not latch or you will be crawling to the back seat to remote release the hatch.

 

Excellent info--thanks!

My next door neighbor came over when the car wouldn't start and said it sounded like the starter because of the clicking noise. I'llnget the battery tested and go from there.

 

Replacement Battery also must be the kind so you can attach the vent hose back up.....The Optima red is the only non-venting battery I am aware of not needing this attachment.

Any other battery will be venting the poisoness gasses into the cabin....

 

Poisonous gasses in the cabin sound like a negative, so I will watch for that. I did not go out today, but will be shopping tomorrow as places are open.

One other odd thing -- the speedometer jumped as the car tried to start. I have seen dead batteries and alternators, but the Mini's reaction seems a bit different.

 

All the reactions you list were present when my 2006 JCW battery recently croaked. The NAPA battery I bought had a place for the vent tube to connect.

 

I just went to the MINI dealer and asked for a replacement battery for my wife's 2006 'S'. I think it was only about $120, and of course the fit was perfect. The only strange thing is that the new battery doesn't have a vent hose attachment, so I guess MINI has switched over to a sealed design.

 

I replaced the battery, and everything fell right into line. I didn't realize how hesitant the starts were until they weren't any longer. Thanks for the insight.

Also, I got a Gold level battery from Advanced Auto. Fit perfect. Vents appropriately. Can't complain.