Hi all,
So, the other day the Mrs reported our 04 Meriva 1.6 petrol wouldn't start but wasn't able to tell me exactly what was (or wasn't) happening when she turned the key. Well, tonight it happened to me and if it's the same symptoms I'd say it was immobilised (turns over freely but won't start)?
As with her I left it for 30+ mins (luckily I was near my Mums ) and when I went back, all was fine. It had only been driven 1/2 mile from cold when I parked it up.
I noticed that the 'Emissions' light was on when it wouldn't start (but may have gone out as I was cranking it over).
So, random ignition light but still charging ok.
Speedo and rev counter die for a few seconds as the ignition light comes on (other things may go out but I've not noticed).
The ignition light can come on repeatedly (and be reset) even when the engine idling and the vehicle stationary.
The ignition light is reset on ignition cycling (ie, once on it stays on but can be reset).
My ODB code reader cannot see any error codes.
So, now I've witnessed the thing immobilising itself (when the Rover
218SD did that I knew how to de-activate it easily, even without the fob), are we looking more at the BCM?If so, is it something I can simply unplug (does it sit in the fusebox under the bonnet), open up and check for dry-joints and the like and just plug back in without it needing any reprogramming etc please?
If I can't see / find anything obvious, is it just a matter of getting a suitable replacement (how generic are they, even if I get one for a Meriva A etc) and could I take it to a dealer and ask them to swap them out and program? Would the original one stay useable (could they then be interchanged)?
Cheers, T i m