C8 starter motor problem

[PeteC8]

Hi all, I have just graduated to a 2004 C8 with 2 known faults: This fault is the starter not always operating when key is turned. You hear the click (unless the auto box is in gear without brake on), try several times and she suddenly works. In the past on other cars I have found this to be solenoid contacts burnt, but with this car I wondered if there was a relay in the circuit which may be at fault?
If not, then how would I tackle removing the starter? Many thanks in advance, Pete

[GiveMeABreak]

There's a lock in place to stop the car from starting in any gear on the Auto, so if you are getting the 'Click' when in Part and trying to start, then sounds very much like the starter bushes.

I've mow put a guide up for you here:

viewtopic.php?t=70679

[Hell Razor5543]

If you are looking to replace the starter motor might I suggest you take a look on the GSF website? I had to replace the motor on my first C5, and got a reconditioned (by Bosch) starter motor from them for around £120. When I returned the old motor to them I got back about half that.

[PeteC8]

Thanks for the info James, I am hoping to go well under that level by sourcing a solenoid from Durite via my tame auto electric supplier, or brush set should it turn out to be that and the commutator permits. However, that price you quoted is very keen and definitely worth keeping in mind. Best regards, Pete

[Hell Razor5543]

I have found that, should you sign up on their website, you can get some items at a greatly reduced price. I had to replace the wishbones on my C5. They were around £175 each. With the code I got the pair for around £150! The code changes regularly, as do the parts covered by it.

I have just checked on the website (making a few assumptions about your C8), and the various motors (with the code) have a 45% discount. The very cheapest (so I cannot comment on the quality) is going for £76 (but nothing for a returned motor), while the top Bosch is going for £278, and £64 back if you give them the old motor.

[PeteC8]

Thanks, I will look once I have got the starter off. They have always done good prices on my Xantia spheres with their almost constant 45 percent off deal.

[moizeau]

I've recently done the starter solenoid on my 407 2.0 hdi 136 auto AM6. It would click but not spin up, this got worse until it started popping the fuse. It was worse with a warm engine. The fact that it popped the fuse told me it was the solenoid as opposed to the starter. It was dead easy to do, access was fine and the solenoid cost 25 euros at a local auto factors. If you've got the same starter/solenoid I can find the part no. out. Think it's a Mitsubishi.

[PeteC8]

moizeau, many thanks! As soon as storm Eunice has finished taking my fences down I will get to it!