Xsara HDI Mk2 glowplug light

JBUK · Unread post by **JBUK** » 07 Jun 2005, 03:34

The warning light on my 2002 Xsara HDI has stopped working. Although its on warranty still I cannot persuade my dealer to fix it FOC cos bulbs are not warranted.
Does anyone know how to get the instrument panel off to get to the bulbs ?? It looks like a major job to me with much potential to damage plastic mouldings if force is used in the wrong place.
I have changed dozens of dashboard lights on my BXs but this car looks more of a challenge.
The glowplugs are definitely still working when needed as the car starts up normally if I let the plugs heat up for ten seconds on a cold morning. In other words it is the panel bulb that has failed not something more fundamental.

Unread post by **RichardW** » 07 Jun 2005, 12:44

Are you sure the light has stopped working? The HDi engine is not like the old XUD and will just start without the light apparently coming on, even when the ambient temp is very low. I wouldn't worry about it - if the engine won't fire on a very cold day just wait a couple of seconds and crank it again and away it should go. It's possible you'll significantly upset the multiplex if you go disconnecting the instrument panel....!

rossd · Unread post by **rossd** » 07 Jun 2005, 12:56

At anything over 18 deg C ambient air temperature, the glowplugs are not used at all in an HDi. At 5 deg C its something silly like 0.25 seconds.

JBUK · Unread post by **JBUK** » 07 Jun 2005, 14:45

I understand the issue of the difference between the old and new engine glowplug operation.
I first noticed this in March when I was in the Alps. The morning temperatures were always negative. If I cranked the engine without waiting for the plugs to heat up then starting was always delayed for quite a few seconds and accompanied by clouds of smoke. On the other hand if I gave the plugs a few seconds then starting was normal i.e. instantaneous and smoke free.
Richard, I am obviously not worried about it, but I would like to know how to get to the panel bulb so that - one day - I can fix it.
The car languishes on my drive at present. I prefer to use the BXs still. I dont really think that smooth, quiet, well made, complicated modern cars are for me yet! Especially as I bought this car to try to have a newish car that would be reliable and not require continual work to keep it usable.