Custom not starting, clicking noise only.

[Horsee1]

Hello everyone,

I’ve been through various old threads where people have had similar problems, apologies if it’s annoying to ask again.
Here’s what’s happening.
I’ve got a 2017 transit custom. Last week it started fine, short drive and then wouldn’t start again.
Had clicking at the key and also a warning on the dash that there was a brake system failure and to pull over safely. (Despite not running)
Managed to bump it and the brake warning went away. Drove 200 miles, all good.
Next day it wouldn’t start, just got the clicking noise. No random warnings this time.
Have checked the battery, it’s reading 12.30.
Suspected it could have been the starter motor so changed it out for a new one but this hasn’t resolved the problem.

Where should I look next? I’ve read some stuff about checking the earth strap Is properly tight/ connection is good?
What is this, where do I look for it?

Any other ideas?

Thanks in advance for your time.

[Horsee1]

The other weird thing it’s doing is beeping when I lock it, as if a door were open.

I don’t know if this is connected or a strange coincidence. I have checked, all the doors really do seem like they’re closed!

[Altransit]

If the battery is the original, it could be failing

[Horsee1]

It is the original battery but as it’s reading 12.30 on a multimeter and refusing to even try and crank the engine I’ve assumed the problem is somewhere else.

I could try jumping it to rule battery out?

[Altransit]

Battery voltage is only a rough indicator of its condition, a fully charged healthy battery should be reading 12.6/12.7volts. You could try turning on the ignition, lights and blowers, and see what voltage it reads then
It may not have enough power to crank the engine, so yes, it would be worth seeing if a jump cable helps with cranking

[metalworker0]

Check all your thick wires both negative and positive. follow them from the battery ..take off, clean up were they fasten on to. clean with wire brush, brillo pad, sandpaper etc ..don't just spray on cleaner ...
Clean both battery posts ..and inside the clamps that fasten to them.
observe starter motor connections ...are they loose - even when tightened ..if so investigate the cause.

all the best...mark

[Horsee1]

Thanks for your replies. I will go back and have more of a poke about, see if I get anywhere.
Appreciate your time.