When left overnight or for long periods, our 2002 Focus 1.8 TDCI turns over for 10 seconds before starting/firing.
It is then fine for the rest of the day and usually starts within 2 or 3 seconds.

There are no fault codes, no lights on dash, battery is brand new, it has had glow plugs within the last 6 months, injectors have been 'leak tested' and are fine. Car has done approx 104,000 miles.

Any ideas please - it's driving us mad!?

 

You may have a very small air leak in the fuel system causing the fuel to drain back to the tank. I think there is also a non return valve in the system that may also have failed.

 

That's exactly how I would describe it - it seems like the fuel is draining back to the tank. I'll take a look for leaks. Thanks.

 

Could be you starter motor's getting tired, mine had to be changed at 5 years old. First start of the day would be laboured and the engine shook quite a bit, after that it would be fine, changed the motor and Roberts your mothers brother !