Car sometimes will not start - starter turns slowly

[happypeter]

Hi,
My girlfriend has the old nissan micra (k11). About 30% of the time it will not start, the starter motor turns but very slowly...like the battery is almost flat.

Then you leave it an hour come back and it will start straight away (starter motor turns very fast).

Is it the starter? or could it be something else?

Many thanks

 

[Burnerman]

At this stage, check the battery terminals and earth wires for tightness and cleanliness....you may feel some heat if they have some resistance.
Don't forget the starter wire connection at the same time!
John

 

[Alec_t]

Poor/corroded earth connections are a common cause of problems such as this.

 

[DIYspanner]

As above, check all cables and wires. I'd disconnect them all and clean with wire brush and electrical contact cleaner, £4 at Halfords.

 

[mattylad]

Sounds like your flux capacitor is on it's way out, you'll need to strip it down and lubricate it with elbow grease and vigor.

Wot ^^ said sounds right, failing that take the petrol cap off, go into the nearest NIssan dealers with it and ask for the new car to go with the cap