random non starting

[coopey]

Hi all,

The wife has given me her mark 2 Mr2 as she now has a Roadster.

She had the Mark 2 for 4 years with no problems whatsoever.

Since I've had it the car has developed a non starting problem - turn key and nothing happens apart from relays clicking.
Then after a few attempts it will start normally.
Tried a new starter motor but still had same problem.

Let me know if you need any more info to attempt a diagnosis and I will do my best to provide it.

[Quigonjay]

possibly just the battery, has it been stood and the battery allowed to drain?
replaced mine three times over the years

[coopey]

don't think so - all the electrics are working.
when it does decide to start it bursts into life - as it always did.


there's no pattern to the non starting - but it's getting worse.
when it first started to occur the car would start after a few attempts.
Now it's sat on the drive and perhaps one attempt in 20 will work

[Quigonjay]

well if its not the starter motor relay itself then (the clicking noise) i'd guess at a possible wiring/earth issue
does it run fine once fired up?

[coopey]

no issues at all with the way it runs - when it does decide it's going to start.

and when it does start it bursts into life - quick turn of the starter motor and off it goes.

[abovetherim]

Check all the earths in the engine bay. Also check the main battery earth both contact points and condition of the cable ends. Check the positive terminal is clean and tight too.

If all that checks out check out the outputs from the ignition switch for connection, condition and power at the right time

[coopey]

Hi all - finally sorted.

Immobiliser!!

Rang the company that manufactures the unit and explained the problem - very helpful person explained how to bypass it with a couple of 15 amp fuses.

Quite worrying just how helpful they were - I had original installation certificate etc just to prove I was genuine but they never asked for any proof.

Anyway - back to starting first time every time