Intermittent Starting problem..."clicks" but engine doesn't turnover

[Robho]

I have a 2007 Partner Multispace 1.6HDi

all running fine, then, on attempting to start, just a 'click' and engine doesnt turnover. 

Tried again, several times, same issue.

Then (maybe 5th or 6th attempt) engine started. Before pulling away, turned ignition off. Tried to restart and exactly the same as above. 

So now, sometimes it starts sometimes just clicks.

I've looked at other threads but not found something directly comparable. 

Since (I thought) it would be cheap I intended to get a replacement starter solenoid to have handy. I cant get one. Local factor gave me this Bosch part number 2339304011. Hasnt produced anything when I search (apart from makes I havent heard of on eBay for £60-ish. which I dont fancy)

I thought I'd try the local main delaer who tells me I'd be better off with a recon starter motor for £160(!). 

Eurocarparts do a Bosch starter for a not comparable £89.

My wife relies on it so I need it to be reliable, and her not be stranded.

I have an OBD reader (but there is no engine light showing).

Appreciate any tips to help diagnosis please.

many thanks

[brodfather11]

As long as the earth wires and battery connections are good then I too would suspect the starter or solenoid.


One way of finding the problem I used to use was to get someone to hold the key in the "click" position and tap the started or solenoid with a hammer. Some times the shock of being hit made the starter work, if the brushes were sticking. Same with the solenoid .

[Robho]

As long as the earth wires and battery connections are good then I too would suspect the starter or solenoid.


One way of finding the problem I used to use was to get someone to hold the key in the "click" position and tap the started or solenoid with a hammer. Some times the shock of being hit made the starter work, if the brushes were sticking. Same with the solenoid .

Thanks. Is the solenoid part of the starter motor (I've been told it is)?

[oilyrag]

Also worth checking the battery, as a failing one might do the same - ideally 12.5 volts or thereabouts - when down nearer 12.3 it hasn't the guts to work properly.
If you have a charger then boost it up before spending any money.

[Robho]

Also worth checking the battery, as a failing one might do the same - ideally 12.5 volts or thereabouts - when down nearer 12.3 it hasn't the guts to work properly.
If you have a charger then boost it up before spending any money.

Thanks.

Battery reading 12.5V.

Took both battery terminals off and cleaned them and the posts. When this first occurred it was after a decent run (and given no signs of a charging issue) the battery was charged.

As a pre-emptive, I took both battery terminals off and cleaned them and the posts. Not dirty but cant do any harm.

Subsequently (and Murphy's Law) it has turned over every single time of trying.

So, a fixed fault? Or, a lingering one waiting to catch us out?!
Grrr

thanks for the tips so far.

[Robho]

Also worth checking the battery, as a failing one might do the same - ideally 12.5 volts or thereabouts - when down nearer 12.3 it hasn't the guts to work properly.
If you have a charger then boost it up before spending any money.

Thanks.

Battery reading 12.5V.

Took both battery terminals off and cleaned them and the posts. When this first occurred it was after a decent run (and given no signs of a charging issue) the battery was charged.

As a pre-emptive, I took both battery terminals off and cleaned them and the posts. Not dirty but cant do any harm.

Subsequently (and Murphy's Law) it has turned over every single time of trying.

So, a fixed fault? Or, a lingering one waiting to catch us out?!
Grrr

thanks for the tips so far.

In the end, I replaced the starter motor. I'm sure there will be details elsewhere in here, or would be happy to add some notes of what was involved. It was very fiddly!