Hi, hoping anyone with the time to lend some wisdom would be so kind, i'd really appreciate it.
Got an L Plate one of these, 122k+ now, had it for a few months. Was told from the seller that on turn of the key to get the ignition lights on, I should wait until I hear a click, in behind the dash. Almost as if that's the electronics coming on line. Once the click has happened, I can start. When taking key out, you hear a reverse "click", which must be the electronics "parking".
From the day I got it, when cold, the "check engine" light would either stay on or come on quickly, always accompanied by a similar click, usually a few secs before the light lights. During this time I might notice a slight lull from the accelerator pedal, which is a touch disconcerting.
Usually the light would go out, then on and off again shortly after, but shorter duration, and sometimes a 3rd brief spell.. or because of the lull between the audible click and the light coming on, i'd get two quick on/off clicks but the light never appeared. Hopefully that makes sense. Pretty predictable routine, every time.
Once this sequence is complete, the car is always fine regardless of journey length/type/conditions - whatever.
Within last few weeks though, it has sometimes failed to start nicely, either completely cold or after a brief stop (eg for petrol). I think in all occasions i've given the accel. pedal a quick dab - instinct from the old xr3i i was driving before (dont ask).. when it seems to be igniting, to bring it to life better... But with this one, as mentioned when the CE light is on, the pedal seems to sometimes have the negative effect and drops the revs.. then I leave pedal alone and next attempt the car wont fire, starter motor going like mad.. almost as if flooded. Leave for a few mins and sure enough it clears and starts, but bubbly for a few secs until it all clears.
So i dont really know if this is a mechanic condition, or electrics/software, or mixture.. but i'd like to know whether i really should get it looked at, or whether this is just something that comes with age and isnt really fixable (or worth the money when it hasnt really put me out yet).
Feedback appreciated so much. Also anyone know what the deal is with the immobiliser I/O switch down near the cigarette lighter?!? This doesnt seem to be in the manual and just seems so bizarre to be placed there! I'm fed up with having to explain it - and you cant just say "not telling u - but please dont touch" - cos people will, and if you do it seems everyone wants to scare you by flicking it off when ur just parked up too!
Many thanks in advance, jon