Problems starting - randomly doesnt turn over

[purplecrocs]

Hi all

I've started to have trouble lately starting my van. Occassionaly when I turn the key the ignition doesnt turn over... the dash lights come on and theres a click but then nothing. If i turn it off and try again it will usually work... though sometimes its can take 2 or 3 tries before it will trun over properly and start

Anybody any idea what would be causing this ... so I can attempt to fix it myself?

Many thanks

[JamesKT25]

Starter Motor sticking? Check there is voltage getting to the starter when you turn the key.

[stevo snr]

I've got same problem with a new starter motor. battery checked, extra earth added, new starter switch. When it does turn over it spins the engine no problem.

[The Bishop]

I was going to say is it a bad earth? Try taking the earth stap off, give it a clean and fix it back. Might work!

[yetihair]

Could be the usual ignition switch failure.
I think the replacement procedure is in the wik

[jamesc76]

most likely the switch, they do fail and often!

[kevtherev]

mine was the solenoid connectors.. needed cleaning..

[purplecrocs]

mines got worse... took me quite a few turns to get it to turn over today - was a bit worried it wasnt going to!

I'll have a go a cleaning the connectors first... once a work out where the starter motor actually is (yes... bit of a engine novice...! if anyone has a picture....)

[edoh]

Jack van up and place on axle stands – one each side. If you are really skinny, or can gain some height by parking on the kerb, you may be able to access the starter motor.
Now disconnect the battery, then crawl underneath and see if you can locate the starter motor. Haynes says to remove the rear wheel on the drivers side, as this makes access easier. I’m sure it does, but as our wheel refused to budge, we did it with the wheel in place! Crawl under the van, behind the drivers seat and look around you will see the starter. Along with bits of rust, grot, mud etc., so safety goggles if you are comfortable with them are useful.

from the wiki - with photos -

or facing the engine bay - on your right hand side - past the alternator - air cleaner - just below and outside - the solenoid and starter -

[andyvw]

I had this problem, ran through all the normal switch, connection, earth checks to no avail.
Replaced the starter motor and all was well for a few months, then the problem returned.
Replacement motor solved the problem for 14 months before it returned again.
A third replacement has been working fine for 3 years now. I wonder wether there is a common solenoid problem with these units. When they go back as an exchange , bench testing will show the solenoid works fine and so gets sold out only to reappear again. I'm tempted to fit a completely new one next time , Brickwerks sell them I believe, so as to avoid similar issues in the future?

[purplecrocs]

Well i've found where it is, i have no ramps or axel stands though and with the limited space i had lying under there i couldnt get one of the wires off - corroded probably so could be part of the problem? think its the live, there seems to be a fairly new looking wire bolted on the end which, assuming is the earth. Needs to go in the garage to look at an oil leak so I'll have to get them to look at this at the same time i guess!