Starting problems after sitting a week
 

I have a 2004 6MT with 53k miles that starts up perfectly as long as I don't let it sit for a week or more without starting it up. When I first enter the car and put the key to the on position the interior lights come on like normal but as soon as I try to crank the car everything goes out and it doesn't even crank and there is no power. I wait a few seconds put the key back to the on position and power comes back but dies again once I try to crank it. I do this a few times and then after a few tries all the gauges go all the way up and back down to 0 like the car is off. Finally a few more tries and if I leave the key in the on position I'll hear a constant ticking from under the hood of the car for about 10 seconds and only after it stops the car will start like normal again. Anyone have any ideas what might be causing this??

have you tested your battery?
More info is needed here...

I got a new battery back in June for the car but this problem has been happening even before then so I don't think its the battery. Does anyone know what the clicking sound from the engine compartment might be? Almost sounds like a computer resetting but very loudly. Also, any meaning behind the gauges doing a full sweep up and down and then back and fourth a bit even when the car is off?

Means your battery is dead, you sure you dont have something in your car that is constantly running and killing your battery, other than oem components

test the battery and the leads. Make sure there's no corrosion.

You should also check your dark current draw.

:scratchhe

Check the alternator, also, what is the new battery rated for Amps and Cold Cranking Amps?

Clicking is your solenoid switching on and off. Probably.

The car is relatively stock with the exception of a tanabe exhaust and racing beat intake and sways so I don't have anything running constantly. Other reason I don't think its the battery is because I don't have to jump it to get it started, after I go through everything I described in my original post it starts right up. The battery is a Autocraft gold battery that's rated at 640 CCA.

Check the battery terminals. Make sure they're clean and tight.

If you're in an inquisitive mood, then don't clean the terminals just yet, but next time this happens check the battery voltage after the first failed try at starting.

Ken