Hi,
I have a 67 plate Citroen Relay which won't start when it is cold outside. If it is around 4C or below, I turn the key and hear the relay click. But the starter doesn't turn at all. Once the outside air temp has warmed up, or I've put the diesel heater on for a bit (it's a campervan in conversion), it will start straight away no issues and no sluggish starter motor.
I've had the battery tested and there are no issues. I think the ignition feels a bit lazy when turning the key but it's hard to tell and if it is the issue, it's maybe been getting worse over time and I haven't noticed as I've got used to it.
With my limited knowledge, I don't think it's the starter motor. I also don't think it's not a bad earth and am leaning towards it being the ignition barrel. Am I making assumptions and missing something obvious?
As always, thanks for your help & input
Citroen Relay - Starter motor doesn't crank when cold outside
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HedleyP
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mickthemaverick
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Re: Citroen Relay - Starter motor doesn't crank when cold outside
I'd unplug the steering column connectors and spray with contact cleaner. Then dry them off and reconnect. Next is the BSI plugs and sockets for the same treatment. You have to start somewhere!! 
I used to be indecisive, now I'm not so sure!
I used to ride on two wheels, but now I need all four!
I used to ride on two wheels, but now I need all four!
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HedleyP
- Posts: 3
- Joined: 19 Sep 2022, 20:15
Re: Citroen Relay - Starter motor doesn't crank when cold outside
Thanks Mick. Sounds like a good plan of action.mickthemaverick wrote: 23 Mar 2026, 10:22 I'd unplug the steering column connectors and spray with contact cleaner. Then dry them off and reconnect. Next is the BSI plugs and sockets for the same treatment. You have to start somewhere!!
Hedley
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ozvtr
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Re: Citroen Relay - Starter motor doesn't crank when cold outside
Starters can suffer from a number of problems with the symptoms that you describe.
Bad main contacts in the solenoid. Slug sticks in the solenoid housing. Carbon brushes worn.
The slug is a neat fit inside the solenoid and sometimes it's greased. If it gets cold enough the grease can get sticky and the slug wont move. If the slug doesn't move, it doesn't press on the main contacts and the starter doesn't run.
Depending on the design, the solenoid is either driven by a relay or directly from the ignition barrel.
However, it would be very rare that failure of those contacts would be caused by temperature.
To check if it's the starter, hold the key to start and get someone to tap the starter with a hammer or wrench.
Bad main contacts in the solenoid. Slug sticks in the solenoid housing. Carbon brushes worn.
The slug is a neat fit inside the solenoid and sometimes it's greased. If it gets cold enough the grease can get sticky and the slug wont move. If the slug doesn't move, it doesn't press on the main contacts and the starter doesn't run.
Depending on the design, the solenoid is either driven by a relay or directly from the ignition barrel.
However, it would be very rare that failure of those contacts would be caused by temperature.
To check if it's the starter, hold the key to start and get someone to tap the starter with a hammer or wrench.