xantia starter not turning

tj · Post by tj » 21 Oct 2005, 02:10

my xantia wagon (auto) failed to start after stopped for petrol. when a cable is linked from the battery '+' terminal to the starter directly and with the ignition key at "on", the starter turns and the engine fires up. what could be the problem? I was told that it could be either a faulty ignition switch, a faulty starter relay or the "gear inhibitor switch" malfunctioning. after searching forum, it seems it is highly likely to be a faulty ignition switch, if that is the case, can it be repaired?

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jeremy · Post by **jeremy** » 21 Oct 2005, 06:58

I think you will find that new switches aren't particularily expensive. have a look at the GSF and Eurocarparts on line shops and GSF catalogue (downloadable)

dieseldes1 · Post by **dieseldes1** » 21 Oct 2005, 10:13

First thing to check is the exciter terminal on the starter motor, I have lost count of the number of Peugot/citroen cars I have been out to where all the terminal needs is a clean up (some cases cable terminal replaced),
check there is voltage on the terminal when the ignition switch is turned to start.

Des

tj · Post by tj » 21 Oct 2005, 16:44

problem solved! it was the ignition switch alright, it was duely replaced and the car starts normally. one strange thing though. before the ignition switch was replaced, i started the car by jumping directly from the battery and drove around, but the auto box refused to shift up from first, it jerks on first and lost drives intermittently. after the swtich was replaced, the gear box problem dissappeared as well. any possible explanation here?

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406 V6 · Post by **406 V6** » 21 Oct 2005, 16:51

The auto is electronically controled, so a faulty switch could lead to insuficient voltage feed to the gearbox ECU.