Won't turn over - weird clicking sound! Help!

[Error404]

Can won't turn over, getting a fast clicking sound, like a relay but much louder, sounds as if its coming from the starter motor.
I've tried disconnecting the battery, smacking starter with a hammer, and no luck getting it to turn over - i think it might be an electrical or relay problem - can anyone offer any advice?

[terrybullwon]

Does the fuel pump prime? Injectors click?

[Error404]

fuel pump primes, can hear a click afterwards as normal (is that the injectors / relay?)
then when i turn to crank the engine, no starter motor, just a rally fast clicking sound, like the solenoid is firing really quickly, a good 10 times a second

[spink]

sounds like battery hasnt got enough juice in it

[Error404]

sorted thanks guys - weird, gauge was reading 12v so i thought battery was fine - used a jumper pack and it started reluctantly, running now anyway - cheers

Don't understand why the solenoid was just firing really quickly if there was low charge though... Hmmmm

[spink]

12v on gauge doesnt really tell you the condition of the battery,a load tester is the only way you can tell if its got the oomph to start.I would get the battery/alternator checked,unless you had left the lights/stereo on.

[pixsaudisex2]

its the noise you normaly get..

[s2driveruk]

yep mine did that when the alternator was fubar'd...didn't charge the batter enough so wouldn't start the car.

[Error404]

yeah, i'd had to change the alternator on friday, thought the battery still had juice, but obviously not - i thought it strange becasue my CQ has never does this when its battery died a couple times. anyhoo, sorted now - cheers guys