Car not starting and not idling well - possible causes?

[Hicks]

Cupra 1.8T. Car sometimes doesn't start, usually when it's been standing for an hour. I don't think it's the battery as it's turning over ok, just no ignition. Looking for any suggestions on what could be causing this?

Also, I don't know if this is related, but the engine is sometimes very hesitant at idling and low revs, and I get no power. It does pick up after a minute though. I found the thread talking about split hoses, so that's something to check.

It's just had a major service, including plug changes, but I'm still having problems. Any ideas, especially on the starting problems?

Thanks.

 

[sebasti0n]

Had the same on mine mate.... changed the Temperature coolant sensor.... all well now.... I had one of the OLD Black sensors.... replacement one is green.

£26 from stealers..... easy to fit by yourself.....

 

[Cupra2505]

Andrew,

I've got a similar problem, although mine starts with no problems. Outside of this forum a VW technician has suggested the Temperature Coolant Sensor as well. I'm picking it up tomorrow and plan to fit it over the weekend. I'll let you know how I get on next week.

Mark

 

[Hicks]

Thanks guys. Where is this sensor, and how easy to fit? Do I have to dismantle part of the engine to get to it? Any pictures would be a great help.

 

[ibizacupra]

its on the right hand side (under a cover) viewing engine stood in front.
its held simply by a C clip affair (plastic) in a plastic junction. 4xwires out of the top of it in a coolant line. Pull the circlip out, pull out the sensor, insert new one, refit circlip, replug electrical connector, easy peasy.. do it on a cold engine however. some water will spill out, but not much if you have the new one handy and ready

easy DIY

 

[Hicks]

Sorry, still having trouble locating this. I've taken the engine cover off. Should I be able to see it? Is it anywhere near the dump valve?

 

[v-g]

This link should sort things out.

 

[Hicks]

Ah right. Thanks that's just what I needed.

 

[Cupra2505]

Andrew,

Hope it works out for you. I fitted my Saturday afternoon with some high hopes of improvement. Well I'm 80% there, it's still not quite how I want it to be - but maybe I'll just have to live with it.

 

[GazW]

I had the same problem, wouldn't start and idled rough. The temperature sensor sorted out the starting problem, here is the guide I used:

http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=1287042

Ta

 

[Hicks]

That is an excellent guide. There could be a permanent link to that thread in the 'guides' section of SCN.