I have a 2003 1.9D and it hates the freezing mornings. Just wondering what the most likely part is going to be causing this  - glow plugs or relay?

Start with the Glow Plugs check they are working first.

Videos on youtube showing how to test them if you're stuck.


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I'm sure they work to a point. The heater light comes on and goes out after a few seconds. It starts fine on a slightly cold morning, but a real freeze causes problems

The dashboard indicator light doesn't always tell the full story the plugs are often on when the light is out.

Try giving the glow plugs a double heat when it's really cold....ignition on...15 seconds...ignition off then straight back on....15 seconds....start.


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Check glow plugs etc as others have said but then check valve clearances as they tighten & lower cold compression enough to cause bad starting.

Well I did my glow plugs last week. 

All seemed well improved starting how ever after the real chill came back was back to square 1 

So today I got down to the clearances all my inlets are closed right up can't even get the 0.04 in there. 

Looks like I need to get a timing belt kit/waterpump and find out if the local pug dealer has shims in stock

Fyi mines starts but runs like a filing cabinet falling down stairs until warm and even then it's not smooth.

(I have 2 of these engine so comparing apples with apples my vans loads smoother than the multi space)

The Valve clearance are a common problem on these engine 100,00 mile;s or more so it need's to be one of the first thing to check nice to see your getting it sorted .

(05-12-2016, 06:55 PM)Top drive Wrote:  Well I did my glow plugs last week. 

All seemed well improved starting how ever after the real chill came back was back to square 1 

So today I got down to the clearances all my inlets are closed right up can't even get the 0.04 in there. 

Looks like I need to get a timing belt kit/waterpump and find out if the local pug dealer has shims in stock

If you have a friend in the motor trade,you may be able to 'borrow' a box of used shims.You take what you need & put your shims in to replace what you've used.It's worth asking around.Set all at widest value & a 
little too slack is ok but don't take the p. PS A little pressy is in order to thank the donor.

None of my trade mates are into this level of technicality. Their garages are all about the easy money such as timing belts and clutches

They all said swap the engine they are only 50 quid for a low miler.....

Not my style.