Relay clicking then the battery light

[RandyP63]

When I started my car last night I noticed a loud clicking sound. Similar to a relay opening and closing, then the lights started flickering followed by an intermittent battery light display on the dash. The wife was across the street and could hear it. I drive 1200 miles a week, cannot afford downtime, any ideas? I did a search and found some info. On Mkiv cars. Mine is a stock Package 0 2006, the battery was replaced last October. Thanks in advance.

[Keithuk]

Welcome to the forum.

Originally Posted by RandyP63

When I started my car last night

What car, please put the model and year in your car spec and where you are located?

It sounds like the 109 power relay in the fuse/relay box under the bonnet these are quite a common failure. You can't really unplug it to see if the clicking sound goes away because that will stop the car.

If won't hurt to have a spare as they aren't expensive.

[chittychittybangbang]

What's the voltage on the battery when cranking and at rest?

[RandyP63]

Sorry, it is a 2006 tdi package 0, with 126K on it. I started the car this evening and the alternator stinks and it sounds like the bearing is going away.

[Keithuk]

A 2006 tdi what Jetta, Golf or Passat please add to you car spec in User Control Panel?

It could still be charging even though the bearing is going.

[RandyP63]

Sorry, it is a Jetta, I just had the opportunity to check a few things. When I checked the voltage on the battery it was, 12.60 volts then 14.4 with the car running. After placing a load on the system: headlights, radio and heater the alternator bearing started to act up. I think I have my answer.

[Keithuk]

Originally Posted by RandyP63

Sorry, it is a Jetta,

Well please add that and the year to your car spec in the user control panel thats the third time I've mensioned this?

Yes but the alternator bearing won't cause this clicking noise that the thread started of with? Get a 109 1J0 906 381 A power relay. I believe there are grey ones and black ones I think they changed the colour when they were upgraded because its a common fault UK dealer price is only £20. As I said its always handy to have a spare relay in the car because there could come a day when it will crank over but not start this relay is usually the problem.

[RandyP63]

Clutch was bad on the alternator. I will add my vehicle type so as not to upset you.

[Keithuk]

Thats ok at least you are conforming to forum rules.

So was it the clutch making the ticking noise?

[RandyP63]

I found a great alternator shop that replaced it for only $70. Runs great. Thanks to all for the assistance. On a side note VWoA is replacing my headliner for free, hard to contain my enthusiasm. I mean the car is 6 years old and has 127k miles.