Hi, my freelander 1 2.0 tdi 2003 wont start. Main relay keeps ticking noise, engine cranks, starter working well, battery is good, ground cables are just fine. I close the hood and the problem came up. I have tried to change the main relay. Not helping. Tried to read obd fault codes... Cant connect to ecu. Help please...
xDParis64
Active Member
Air
Fuel
Spark
Timing
The 4 things any engine NEEDS to function outside of silly electronics I would recommend testing each part you can test air by putting your throttle to the floor when starting the engine and you can test fuel by spraying some form of combustible fluid into the air intake. Spark can be tested by taking the plugs out putting them near the body of the car and looking for spark when cranking or just using a spark plug tester and Timing can be checked by aligning the engine, there will be a bunch of detail on this timing for this engine in the forum
I don't think the 2003 has an OBD compliant ECU so you will need a special tool to read codes from it.
I would also check the fuel cut off switch and the HP Fuel pump for issues you'll know the fuel pump is bad if you can't hear it prime and spraying something like carb cleaner makes the engine fire
Fuel
Spark
Timing
The 4 things any engine NEEDS to function outside of silly electronics I would recommend testing each part you can test air by putting your throttle to the floor when starting the engine and you can test fuel by spraying some form of combustible fluid into the air intake. Spark can be tested by taking the plugs out putting them near the body of the car and looking for spark when cranking or just using a spark plug tester and Timing can be checked by aligning the engine, there will be a bunch of detail on this timing for this engine in the forum
I don't think the 2003 has an OBD compliant ECU so you will need a special tool to read codes from it.
I would also check the fuel cut off switch and the HP Fuel pump for issues you'll know the fuel pump is bad if you can't hear it prime and spraying something like carb cleaner makes the engine fire
saxavordian
Well-Known Member
Too many hairdryers flattering the battery check when you last replaced your battery.
Well, it is quite old battery but i tried to give extra power for a new battery with cables too. It started well and without cables too, but when i closed the hood the car didnt't start anymore and main relay started to keep clicking sound when i tried to start the car.
saxavordian
Well-Known Member
Dying battery. The car will need a certain level of battery power to kick the engine over. Worth replacing for a new one, whilst taking old shep for a walk in the forest with the shotgun.
saxavordian
Well-Known Member
When you get the new one in the tailgate window will drop first. So start the engine and raise the same window.
I think it’s a diesel…
If it is cranking well but not firing, check the fuel cut-off switch hasn’t popped up. Rear of engine bay on right as you look in. Push it down to reset.
Nodge68
Well-Known Member
It's a diesel, no need for a spark, and even the fuel timing is ECM controlled.
J_D
Well-Known Member
I read that to mean the engine isn't turning over and just a click.
That would lead me to starter solenoid contacts being dirty.
