Ford Fiesta 1.1LX 1994. Starting problems.

Hi,

I've got the above car, and from time to time (monthly), I go to start the car, and it doesn't quite catch on and fails to start. I then go to try again, and it just won't have it. No matter how much I try to start it, it will not start.

When it won't start, I've checked for fuel, spark etc.. Everything is there but it turns over and won't fire into life. I have found the only way to get it started is by tow-starting it. Once it starts, its fine for weeks. Then, without warning it won't start again. It isn't weather related - does it in hot/cold/dry/wet

Has anyone had this, or knows what it is.

Much appreciated,

Rob

snipped-for-privacy@virgin.net

Reply to
Rob Grace
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I have the same problem but with my Orion. I know that if I don't use my car for a day or so it will fire on whatever fuel is in the system and then it cuts out just like yours. I then find that no amount of cranking will get it to fire and if I tow start it it's very lumpy, as though not all cylinders are firing. Leaving it alone for 15-20 minutes though usually does the trick and away we go again. I think mine must be something to do with fuel evaporation somewhere. Hope this helps.

Reply to
RustY ©

It is down to the manifold water temperature sensor. Unplug the connector and the car will start imeddiately. Stop the engine and reconnect the sensor and the engine will start again.

I fitted a switch in my daughters car so that she does not have to try and unplug the sensor plug - it is quite hard for her to do. And she does not need to lift the bonnet and as soon as the cars starts she flicks the switch and the engine runs normal again. If anyone knows why this works I would be interested.

Reply to
l100sam

Thank you Richard. This worked first time. Could it be something to do with the Engine Management System having gone into some sort of "safe mode?" (to protect the engine), presumably disconnecting the sensor "reboots" it.

Reply to
Nigel

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