C2 1.4Hdi intermittently not starting

Post by **c.morewood** » 21 Aug 2009, 20:22

Once in a while my normally reliable C2 refuses to start.
I turn the key.. all the lights come on but no starter motor.
I had thought I had narrowed it down to when it rained overnight, there was a chance it wouldn't start. But today was dry and warm.
I can always start it straight away by bumping it and most times that cures the no starter motor problem.. sometimes it doesn't.
Has anyone else on the forum experienced this?
I initially thought it was an immobiliser problem when first it happened
Then possibly a crank sensor malfunction.
Now i'm thinking it might just be a loose connection to the starter motor or the starter itsself. but the starter is so inaccessible at the back of the engine... does anyone have a picture/diagram of the back of the 1.4 Hdi engine?
The car was a pizza delivery vehicle in its previous life, which might explain a starter problem.
I've just done almost 1000 miles in 2 days and it performed flawlessy until I got back home and it wouldn't start.
Any ideas or solutions would be welcome.
Chris

Post by **myglaren** » 21 Aug 2009, 21:09

If the starter motor doesn't run then I'd suspect the starter solenoid.

Try putting the headlight on and turning the key to start the engine. If the lights don't dim appreciably it is likely the starter is drawing no current because the solenoid is stuck (burned or dirty terminals)
It is not a good idea to bump-start diesels.

Citroenmad · Post by **Citroenmad** » 21 Aug 2009, 22:32

Ive no idea where the startr motor is on the C2, but i had this problem with my old AX. I found wacking the starter with a spanner got it going again

Sounds like you need a new starter motor as steve said.

Post by **myglaren** » 21 Aug 2009, 22:43

Not nesser-celery. An auto electrician may be able to refurb the existing one, assuming that the starter/solenoid is the problem.

Worth checking all the earth straps, could be a poor earth somewhere.

uncle buck · Post by **uncle buck** » 21 Aug 2009, 23:09

I agree, it's nearly always the solenoid that is dodgy & not the starter motor itself.

Cheers.

Citroenmad · Post by **Citroenmad** » 21 Aug 2009, 23:19

I did actually had my Ax starter refurbished by a local company. Cheapest option.

Post by **c.morewood** » 22 Aug 2009, 21:37

Thanks for the responses.. I'll certainly get the starter checked out. I believe its at the back of the engine and I can't find any engine layout diagrams or pictures on the net, so I guess its a trip to the local garage to get it sorted.
Chris

Post by **c.morewood** » 15 Sep 2009, 20:10

Yup it was definately the solenoid... replaced that and the motor gave up.. now after 2 secondhand motors from the breakers.. I've found a reasonably priced one on e bay for £97.
Fingers crossed that one will last a bit longer than the others!!
Thanks to all of the replies.