Seat Leon Cupra tdi- problem starting

Kiran

Hi

I have a 04 leon cupra tdi. Up until today it has run without a fault. I got into the car this morning and turned the key in the ignition, the dash lit up as normal, I turned the key and the engine didn't tick over. Tried again and it didn't start. This went on for a few minutes.

I tried ricking the car back and forward incase the starter was stuck, still no joy.

I tried jumping the car from a donor vehicle, same result. It didn't even try to turn over which leads me to believe that it is not a battery issue.

When you turn the key you hear a click noise which I would imagine rules out the relay.

Does anyone have any ideas as to what it might be before I go and buy a new starter motor?

All help/advice greatly received.

Thanks

Kiran

Also, is it possible to DIY refurbish a starter motor?

buscape

Have you got a spare key?

Kiran

I do have a spare key, are you thinknig imobiliser? From my understanding and a previous VAG car the engine will turn over and cut out in a second or two if the imboiliser is kicking in.

AlexisV

Try cupranet

Sounds like the fuel pump to me.

Kiran

Wouldn't that still tick over but not catch? Thanks for the advice on cupra.net. I have read a lot on the site but nothing exactly like mine.

flang

Hit the starter with a big hammer. The solenoid inside the starter maybe shot or stuck.

buscape

Kiran wrote: »

I do have a spare key, are you thinknig imobiliser?

I am thinking immobiliser, have you tried to start it with the other key?

Kiran

Yeah, I tried to start it with a spare key. Not an imobiliser issue. Hopefully I'll be able to have a propper look today and get to the bottom it.

oldhand

Id agree with flang,tap it with a hammer it could be a sticky solenoid,A diy repair of a starter is feasable if you know what your doing otherwise a local scrapyard may be best.
Also check the earth strap from the battery where its fixed to the body of the car,sometimes if this has corrosion on it you will get the clicking sound you describe when trying to start.
If it looks corroded remove the strap,give it a rub with emery paper and a smear of vaselene and try it.

Kiran

Well the problem is all fixed now, thank you all for your advice. It turns out that the battery had a complete failiure and woudn't hold any charge whatsoever. This coinsided with a loose connection to the starter. 20 minutes work problem solved for the cost of a battery.

Once again, thanks all for your advice:beer: