Starting problem

[ADH]

Hi all, I have a 2001 Picasso HDI .My problem is when I come to start it, it won't turn over, all the dash lights go out, amost like a flat battery ,but after a few tries it turns and starts with no problem.Sometimes it will start first time,and doesn't seem to matter if the engine is hot or cold.I have checked the battery for charging and it's fine the only thing I have t checked is cranking amps.I recently fitted a new starter motor so I know it's not that.Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[Peter.N.]

Sounds as though you have a poor connection in the battery circuit, the lights are going out is because the voltage is dropping to more or less nothing when the starter is engaged. Clean the battery terminal posts and the connectors, if that doesn't cure it check and clean the earth lead connection which is probably on the gearbox.

Peter

[MattBLancs]

I recently fitted a new starter motor so I know it's not that.

As Peter says, check the connections, battery plus those disturbed when starter motor replaced= perhaps something has come loose and is making and breaking connection?

Other thing would be a multimeter on the battery terminals, would show if voltage plummets when key turned (in situation when not starting) - starter is the big current draw, but loose connection could act as a resistor in that circuit too (would expect it to get very hot mind you, and also that motor turn slowly rather than nothing at all.

Suppose new starter could be faulty - sticking solenoid, guess manufacturing fault is possible.

[ADH]

Thanks guys, it was doing it before I changed the starter motor,that's why I replaced it.i have a suspicion it might be a duff battery as I don't know the history but looks old. Could be a couple of cells down

[Peter.N.]

Its unusual for a battery to be intermittent but not unknown. Connect a voltmeter across the battery terminals and watch the voltage when you crank it, if it drops away to a volt or two that will be the problem.

Peter

[PaulC5]

I vaguely remember something on the Xsara Picasso where the ignition switch could burn out/get dirty contacts if the pollen filter was not changed regularly so something to search on or check.

[ADH]

Ok so replaced the battery, and was ok for a few starts left the car for a few hours, went to start it ... Same thing it's getting frustrating now lol

[Peter.N.]

Is the battery voltage still dropping substantially?

Peter

[PaulC5]

You could by-pass the ignition switch by taking a supply direct from the battery to the starter motor solenoid and see if it turns over. If trying this make sure the gears are in neutral and the hand brake is on.

[ADH]

Thanks guys I will look at the weekend, have to work to pay for the car lol

[Rp0thejester]

Have you checked all positive cables coming from the battery? Sounds like it could be a permanent live is draining power at all times. Or a cooling fan over running. Just a thought.

[ADH]

Well guys, turned out it was ignition switch cable, I only found out as my heater blower stopped working ,looked on YouTube and it seems to be a common prob got a new cable array and bobs your uncle. Thanks for all the help chaps

[PaulC5]

Good to see it is sorted. Do not forget to replace the cabin pollen filter every year.