Won't start, but runs and operates perfectly
 

Just went through a small search but didn't come up with what specifically i am experiencing. Most of the posts started out as i drove my mini, turned it off and when i went to start it up again it would click but it wouldn't start. My difference is i am not getting a click from the starter. When i turn the key to the on position in my 2004 MC with manual transmission everything lights up and buzzes like normal, turning the key to start with the clutch pressed all the way to the floor like always results in silence. The battery was tested and is perfect, everything works and functions properly and as intended........the only thing i can think of is that it doesn't really turn over that fast but not sluggish in the same, trying not to read into that but i think would be an expensive guess......( forgot to add that it will pop start, thats how i got it home ) :)

thanks for your replies,

Could be a bad starter or a bad switch that is not allowing voltage to the starter.

Check the ground straps.

In college I had a 1970 Opel GT, loved that little car. I had the same issue, SOMETIMES it would start and drive fine until I turned the engine off, then nothing, I was always able to push start it so I just made sure I was somewhere I could push start it. One day I was under the car and noticed a cable was hanging loose, it was a 2nd ground strap that I didn't know about, connected it to the frame, issue resolved......

I would place my bet on a faulty ground. Two main grounds are located on the left front strut tower and the left side of the luggage compartment behind the trim panel.

On this subject, does anyone have an opinion on the failure rate of OE Mini starters? In my other cars they usually had to be rebuilt or replaced at about 125K. My Mini is now at 155K and with the passenger side axle out this would be the ideal time to replace the starter if there is any chance it will fail in the near future. However, I see very few posts about starter failure, hence my question. Thoughts?

I spoke with the parts department manager at Passport Mini of Alexandria. He confirmed that the failure rate of MINI OE starters, as measured by the frequency with which he sells them, is quite low. Alternators fail more often.

Just went outside and took a look at the grounds, if i was correct in my search there is a single brown ground behind the strut tower that was in new condition and the ground in the rear behind the panel was a cluster of grounds all in great condition.....

i guess my next move will be the switch, i read something about using a magnet?? also read something suggesting jumping terminals, but it being not possible because of the type of switch that it is??

i was told by a friend that if i took a screw driver and jumped the starter that would tell me if it was good or not??

thanks again for all your replies....

Clutch safety switch..