300tdi auto - problems starting in cold weather (not battery)

JMJH · Jan 24, 2015

On cold mornings the car is really difficult to start. Turns over but can take 30 seconds to catch and when it does it's doing so really slowly so I have to keep it turning over with the key for 5-10 seconds just while it's trying to catch on top of the 20-30 seconds of turning over beforehand. Loads of smoke (looks more like steam).

It's not the battery as it had a brand new 1000cca battery fitted and also has a new lift pump so it doesn't sound like the obvious culprits. Any clues what is likely to be out there?

jamesmartin · Jan 24, 2015

lazy starter perhaps it will struggle to start with low cranking speed ,if speed is ok worth looking at leak off pipes and lift pump allowing fuel to drain back but it would be warm mornings too not just cold , glow plugs shouldnt really be needed but might help if they are working perfectly

discool · Jan 24, 2015

Those little things that heat up prior to cold starting on diesel engines may not be working.

JMJH · Jan 24, 2015

I thought glow plugs were pretty reliable and didn't deteriorate. However it sounds like I should start there. I'll feel a bit stupid if it is as basic as that....

Just to underline my numptie credentials, I'm new to diesels so can I ask how difficult these are to replace and whether there is any particular type I'd be better off buying? TIA.

discosrme · Jan 24, 2015

If they havn't been changed in a long while I would spray some penetrating oli down there a couple of days before changing, as they can snap off!!!

biolandy · Jan 24, 2015

Get engine hot before changing helps

twizzle · Jan 24, 2015

i had the same problem and i added a extra couple of earth straps starts now

300tdi auto - problems starting in cold weather (not battery)

JMJH

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jamesmartin

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discool

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JMJH

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discosrme

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biolandy

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twizzle

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