Avensis Wont Start. Weird Noises + Check Vsc. Dealer Baffled

[Kebablover]

Hi All. I was wondering if any members have had a similar experience to me or can offer advice. About 6 weeks ago I tried to start my 2010 Avensis. All the lights and fan etc kicked into life but the engine didn't start and there was a high frequency rattling/ vibrating from within. The display said Check VSC. I then jump started my car without any further issues for a couple more weeks. The problem then occurred a further 4 times over a period of time. I finally took it into Moons in Wigan yesterday. After 4 hours, I got a call to say they couldn't find anything wrong with the vehicle. The computer log hadn't recorded any fault. To add insult to injury, they also suggested I took it away and when it next happened, call the AA!!!!!! To say I was upset is an understatement. Especially when I have been a loyal customer for over 10 years. Moon's have quite happily taken my money for new purchases and annual servicing. I understand that intermittent problems are the hardest to trace. They have now agreed to keep the car for a few days to see if the problem surfaces again. I asked if they had run a check on the Battery and was told it was fine. I suspected that this couldn't be the cause as the car had been left standing for 5 days and started first time. Has anyone else experienced a similar problem? Thanks in anticipation.

[t-spiritpete]

Hello Craig,

If you are saying that when faulty the car always starts via jump leads then I would suspect the Battery or the earthing system on the engine, ie a poor/loose electrical connection. From my experience internal faults in batteries are very hard to trace and any one of the links between the 6 cells or a cell itself may have a problem, the Battery is now at least 4 years old if has not already been replaced but get all connections checked out first.

Regards Pete.

[Kebablover]

Hi Pete. Thanks for the rapid response. The jump start always fixes the problem. However, as I mentioned, the car was stood in the open for 5 days while we were away and thankfully started first attempt. The dealer insists the Battery was checked and OK. I do have a nagging feeling that you are right. Just out of interest, do you know if the Battery is covered in the 5 year warranty? As you would expect, dealers don't want to offer anything unless they have to. A final thought. Would there no be something on the dash display along the lines of 'check battery' when the fault occurs?