Xsara Picasso Starting Problems.

[BronBronson72]

I'm the owner of a 2008 Xsara Picasso 1.6 HDI. I've recently been experiencing intermittent starting problems. The issue began a couple of weeks ago when it took me a couple of turns of the ignition before the engine burst into life. Today it won't start at all. When I turn the key the motor isn't even turning over. I can hear a relay clicking and what sounds like the fuel pump priming but no engine start.

I've checked the battery with a meter and measured 12.7 V. Battery connections are tight and I've carried out a visual check under the bonnet and nothing obvious. With my limited knowledge of car mechanics, I've done some checking on the internet and confused myself even more. 

ECT sensor, BSI reset, Crankshaft sensor, Starter motor, Ignition system the list goes on. My next step was to get hold of a fault code reader to see if that can identify the issue.

Any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[paul.h]

Welcome to the forum.

 

How many miles has the car done ? Over the last couple of weeks, has the starter been turning the engine but not at its usual speed ? If the engine management light is not on then there will not be a fault code, so a code reader may not help at all.

 

If the engine is not turning over and the battery is ok, check the battery connections and the earth points and the connections at the starter motor and if there is 12 volts at the starter motor large cable connection and the engine/gearbox earth cable is connected (if unable to see this, check with your meter on resistance for continuity between the car body and the engine). Then at the starter motor, have somebody try to start the car and listen if the starter makes a clicking sound as its solenoid moves - if it does not click then check if there is a 12 volt supply to it when the ignition switch is turned. If it does click then likely the starter motor needs replacing.

 

For now I would ignore the other things you have listed.