Non starting C5 3litre

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exasperated
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Non starting C5 3litre

Post by exasperated »

Hello, my C5[petrol] even though it has a fully charged battery and all fuses are intact refuses to fire. The engine turns over at its usual rate, all other systems ok. I suspect that the fuel filter is blocked, thus no fuel. The trouble is that the new filter[ an in-line type] that I got from the Agent, using the VIN- I can't find where it is fitted. This begs the question, is the filter the incorrect one or is the filter it the tank? If in the tank, does anyone have an image of the removal tool or any way of removing the locking ring. Any advice will be appreciated. Thanks.
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Re: Non starting C5 3litre

Post by xantia_v6 »

I would be surprised if a blocked fuel filter caused a sudden refusal to start. Usually they will cause poor running well before they get to that stage.
I am not very familiar with the C5, but I would expect the fuel filter to be either at the front of the right hand rear wheel arch, or under the floor just ahead of that.

You can check the fuel circuit by taking off the fuel return line to the tank and run it into a jar while cranking the engine.
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Re: Non starting C5 3litre

Post by GiveMeABreak »

I've pulled this based on a 3 Litre V6 24V petrol Saloon, as you haven't provided full model specs or year. If it is different let me know. Item 2 is your filter.

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Re: Non starting C5 3litre

Post by DHallworth »

I'm thought the C5 V6 is the same as our 406 V6 Coupe where the fuel filter isn't replaceable and is inside the tank.

If it's a sudden failure to start, it could well be the crankshaft sensor that's not telling the ECU that the car is spinning over, therefore no spark or fuel injection. Best thing is to get it on a Lexia, if you do this you'll be able to see the engine rpm change as it spins over on the starter if the crank sensor is ok.

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Re: Non starting C5 3litre

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Re: Non starting C5 3litre

Post by Captain Slow »

If it's turning over but not firing it's possible something to do with an immobiliser. Try locking and unlocking the car. Worth a shot
exasperated
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Re: Non starting C5 3litre

Post by exasperated »

Hello 'GiveMeABreak, Thanks for your diagram---were did you download it from? The filter shown is similar to the new one that I got from the Agent. But as it appears to be located under the body shield I now have the problem of man-handling the car out of its bay and into the one where I have a 2 post lift. But this will be a small price to pay.
Hello DHallworth. If the replacement of the filter does not help then I will have to get an Auto-electrician's help, and to Captain Slow and Wheeler I will try your suggestions.
Thanks to you all.
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Re: Non starting C5 3litre

Post by Stickyfinger »

Hi

Charge the battery overnight as well....and follow the BSI reset/battery change procedure to the letter (C5's HATE low batteries, often you get many faults leading you in false directions)......always do this before any electrical work.
A LEXIA may be a good investment for you on a rare car with low dealer support in your area (or a long way off)...it normally pays for itself in one or two sessions or if you do a lot of work yourself. (Auto electricians do not have them and most (if not all) code readers cannot talk to the separate ECU's very well)
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