Car simply won't start - Rover 414 (1998) - any ideas please

rog2

I have a 1998 Rover 414, which was given to me by a friend a month ago.

I drove it home (250 miles) with no problems whatsoever. Used it for three days, then went to start it - nothing.
I have tried 'jump leads' - charged the battery - even bought a new battery for the key, on advice - still nothing. :mad: :mad:
To clarify:

• Car will not even unlock via remote.
• When I turn the ignition key, the only lights that come on are the 'Oil' and 'Battery' lights.
• There is no power to any other component - lights, windows etc.
• The key will turn to the 'ignition' position, but nothing happens - there is not even a 'click' indicating that the starter motor has engaged.

I believe it 'may' be something to do with the immobiliser system and, having read the handbook, thought I might need to re-set the vehicle security code. Unfortunately, although I have all of the original documentation, the card (supplied by Rover) on which the security codes should be, is blank.

Any ideas - please.

uktyler

Possible flat battery in the remote, remove the battery, press all the buttons at least five times, put a new battery in, and press lock/unlock for at least five times.

This worked on my Rover.

EDIT, sorry you already said you have a new battery, take it out and press the buttons ten times.

Then replace the battery and repeatedly press lock/unlock next to the car. This works when the link between the remote and the car drops out.

rog2

uktyler wrote: »

Possible flat battery in the remote, remove the battery, press all the buttons at least five times, put a new battery in, and press lock/unlock for at least five times.

This worked on my Rover.

Okay - will try - I DID purchase new batteries (twin pack) for the remote.

Will let you know. :beer:

uktyler

An alternative guide:
Rover 400/200/100/600/800 (2 Button Plip)
Procedure
Unlock the car using the key, then operate the lock button on the handset at least 4 times.
Alternative Method
Procedure
Unlock the car using the key, then press lock & unlock buttons alternately several times
Alternative Method
Procedure
1. Lock car by using key in lock
2. Move out of range and press button on fob for 5 secs.
3. Unlock car door with key but do not open door
4. Standing near the vehicle, press the dotted button 4 times very quickly, the door should lock
5. Then press the unlock button and door should unlock.

Taken from here: http://reviews.ebay.co.uk/Rover-Key-Keyfob-Programming-Reprogramming_W0QQugidZ10000000007277376

mrdave

with the key in the ignition and ignition on, does the immobiliser light flash or stay constantly on? (centre of dash?)

rog2

mrdave wrote: »

with the key in the ignition and ignition on, does the immobiliser light flash or stay constantly on? (centre of dash?)

It flashes (but will double check now ).

rog2

rog2 wrote: »

It flashes (but will double check now ).

Sorry - wrong info. Have just checked and should read as follows:

• Light is flashing with door closed
• Light continuously on with door open
• Light goes OFF when I put the key into ignition

rog2

uktyler wrote: »

An alternative guide:
Rover 400/200/100/600/800 (2 Button Plip)
Procedure
Unlock the car using the key, then operate the lock button on the handset at least 4 times.
Alternative Method
Procedure
Unlock the car using the key, then press lock & unlock buttons alternately several times
Alternative Method
Procedure
1. Lock car by using key in lock
2. Move out of range and press button on fob for 5 secs.
3. Unlock car door with key but do not open door
4. Standing near the vehicle, press the dotted button 4 times very quickly, the door should lock
5. Then press the unlock button and door should unlock.

Taken from here: http://reviews.ebay.co.uk/Rover-Key-Keyfob-Programming-Reprogramming_W0QQugidZ10000000007277376

Have tried all of the above, but still no luck - thanks anyway.

posted_2

If headlights/sidelights (ie things that don't run through the ignition switch) etc won't come on, it's either a dead battery, or faulty earth connection/wiring/fusebox.
.

goldspanners

fuses anyone?
check all fuses in cabin and under bonnet, usually behind glove box or under steering column. fuses under bonnet will be in a black box possibly bolted on to the bulkhead.
if all test ok then it could be the battery or maybe even a wire has come off the starter motor.

chnelomi

had the same problem with my old car except it wasn't a rover. put the key in the ignition and turn till the lights etc come on. then hold button on key for 5 seconds then take key fully out re insert and try to start engine. hope it works
Good luck