Runs fine then it wont start. WTF?

[realhp=turbo]

I've had cars with bad batteries in the past. I know how to recognise a dead alternator. This is baffling or just frustrating. Last week it was really hot and I wouldnt doubt that my battery lost alittle water to evaporation. So I get in my car and it starts fine, doesnt give me any sign that anything is different. then the next time I go to start it it just clicks. like a dead battery. I check the battery water and refill. I clean and then subsiquently replace the battery terminals. My voltmeter says that my battery has plenty of voltage but I still get the click instead of the starter turning over. No one around here has either jumper cables that work or an electrical system strong enough to jump from. So now what? I think I just want to sell the damn thing.

 

[realhp=turbo]

Im begining to think it was the starter solinoid gone bad. If I didnt have to work today Id be tearing that damn thing out. Thanks for all the responses guys! way to help a brother

 

[realhp=turbo]

Got home tore out the starter and found that it was hammered. The solinoid was dead and the gear teeth were some what wore. I'll be buying a new starter in the morn. you guys were a great healp thanks! (sarcasim)

 

[prodsm]

Hey man, I have the same problem, however my starter is fairly new, i was thinking that it is the starter soloniod that is ####ed up.

I need help finding the solonoid on my car.... 90 tsi awd, i have no clue where it is, and also how to test it.

Thanks

 

[realhp=turbo]

did you put the starter in the car? The soliniod is mounted to the starter. The starter is directly under the intake manifold. If you think that your starter soliniod is going bad replace the starter. good luck