Hi all,

I've had a look through previous threads, but none are the same as the problem I've encountered. I'd be grateful if anyone had any ideas.


Although my car is only 4 years old I've noticed it doesn't always turn over on its first go, especially on damp days. I've had the car since February and this has been the case even after services. However I usually give it a bit of gas or turn off and turn back on and it works. However, on Saturday night, I was about to leave for work - had the initiall problem of it chugging but not turning over. Turned engine off and tried to turn it over again and there was nothing. There was no turn over from the engine at all. No clicking. The lights, radio and other electrics were all working.
Called out my break down company. Mechanic checked the battery - Nil problems. He disconnected the battery and solenoid and plugged back in and it worked. I phoned an auto electricians today to look at it, but they felt it is more of a mechanical issue.
Someone at work had a similar problem with an immobiliser issue on a fiesta.


The mechanic has run a diagnostic to no avail. However, he was stuck for moving it in the garage when the same happened to him. He left it for half an hour and it worked again.

 

The garage have been unsuccessful in diagnosing any problem. He's suggested just disconnecting the battery every time it happens. I'm going to search for an auto electrician as this isn't a viable long term option.

 

Found this on honest Johns. I gave it a go - Hasn't done any harm and will rule out it being an immobiliser issue

http://www.mirez.co.uk/KeyProg.htm

 

I don't think so by the fact you say if you give it gas it will start, however if you have a spare key, perhaps try this?

I agree I think it's a mechanical problem, or could be a management issue, i.e. unable to do it's job correctly.

Martin

 

The more I think about it I wonder if it's an ECU problem. I've booked it in with a diagnostic specialist on Saturday to see if they can shine any light. I'm hoping it's not as I think it will cost a few hundred at leaset if that's the case.