Anybody up yet? Help - battery seems dead

[mariner2]

The lights got left on, the battery got drained yesterday afternoon, I did a fastcharge which usualy works after a couple of hours but this time when I tried to start the engine I just got a rapid clicking with no turning over of the engine, any ideas?

[albaqwerty]

I'm in no way, shape or form a mechanic but it might be the alternator?

Can you 'bump' start it.

I hope someone who knows these things will ask you the right questions.

[waterboatman]

Try the lights. That will tell you if there is any power in the battery. Turn them off as soon as you know. If they are bright, try putting the car in gear and rocking it. Then try starting again.

[NOX]

The rapid clicking is the starter motor with not enough current to turn it properly, so as Boatman says because it will do this either because it's sticking or because your battery hasn't got enough charge to turn it properly.

[LochNessMonster]

Get a jump start from a friend and keep engine running for 30 mins to charge battery.

[mariner2]

I had the fast charger on 6v instead of 12v - I didn't notice the switch had moved and its OK now, thanks for all the help though

[albaqwerty]

Glad you're sorted.

[beso]

Try to avoid leaving your lights on. A half dozen deep discharges like that can completely kill a good battery.

[mariner2]

Luckily its not a good battery, its over 5 years old and I'm getting a new one Monday.

[fishing81]

glad your sorted, just thought I would mention that my daughter didn't shut her car boot properly and that drained the battery as well, it apparently is connected to the alarm system which also will drain the battery