Starter motor probs?

[Croline]

Just went to drive my mark 3 to work, and it won't start..........had to walk here!!

It's been getting progressively worse at starting since the really cold weather and snow started over the past couple of weeks, it really sounds like it's straining to turn over...today it tried a couple of times and then didn't bother!

The battery is fine, so I think it must be the starter motor?  Does that sound like the problem?  I read that it might not be the motor but the connections are dirty, also read in another post that whacking it might help but I don't know what to whack!!

I am totally clueless about this but I am going to need to look at fixing this prob myself, so any help appreciated!  How much will it cost to replace the motor, obviously labour depends on where I go, but the parts?

Of course if anyone fancies giving me a hand with it.................. 

[oakgreengolf]

must be a day for starter motors mine gave up too lol. If its been slow to turn over for some time its probably knackered. There should be a red/blk lead to it, also a thick back lead to the starter. You can give these a clean. disconnect battery first. I put a new one on mine problem solved. i tryed the wacking technique but this didn't work and at the end of the day you need a new one to sort the problem out. There are some good buys on ebay failing that german sweedish car parts do them too.