Thread: Next numpty question......Fuel starvation

It could be a anything but it might well be the ignition module playing up.

When you say 'no fuel getting though' - is that how is seems or have you checked the pressure?

That's how it seems. It only happens after a stall. If it's been running fine and I switch it off it starts again fine until I'm driving along (no particular revs range or conditions) and it just dies on me.

Originally Posted by DMO71

That's how it seems. It only happens after a stall. If it's been running fine and I switch it off it starts again fine until I'm driving along (no particular revs range or conditions) and it just dies on me.

Listen carefully for the fuel pump. You should always hear it when you turn the ignition on then for 1-2 seconds until it stops. Slamming the bonnet may jar the pump back to life, same as kicking the petrol tank. However loss if ignition will also show the same symptoms, but you will still hear the pump when you first turn on the ignition. Without the ignition operating you won't hear the pump run on after you stop cranking. This is because the pump will run for a moment, then stop unless the ECU gets an input from the ignition coil. Check all the connectors on the ignition coil for tightness too.

Pump replacement is relatively easy if you have access from inside the load area of the car, through the floor.

Thanks bee-utey. The pump is heard every time I turn the ignition on. Never has missed a beat - it's on of those things I notice every time.

So, sorry if this is a silly question, if the ignition system is faulty it doesn't only affect it on start up but can also cause the car to cut out once it's already running?

Originally Posted by DMO71

Thanks bee-utey. The pump is heard every time I turn the ignition on. Never has missed a beat - it's on of those things I notice every time.

So, sorry if this is a silly question, if the ignition system is faulty it doesn't only affect it on start up but can also cause the car to cut out once it's already running?

The ignition fires a spark each and every time your pistons get to the correct point (a total of four times for every single revolution of the engine), ie it is not some kind of "match" you strike once. So it has to remain working so long as you wish to drive the car. No ignition, it stops straight away.

Without the ignition functioning the ECU will ONLY operate the fuel pump when you first turn on the ignition. It WON'T run the fuel pump when the engine is running or cranking. So you need to listen when you stop cranking. No pump noise? Then you have no ignition. EVERYTHING the ECU does relies on the ignition being present and working.

To repeat my advice more explicitly: Take each wire connector off the ignition coil, squeeze the connector with a pair of pliers, so that it takes a little force to refit. If this solves your problem, good. If not, get some help replacing ignition parts.

Are these the same as your previous symptoms?

http://www.aulro.com/afvb/discovery-...ml#post1183148

Unfortunately no. I actually got that one sorted last year. New radiator, new starter motor and a good service and she was good. This time round, no coughing and spluttering, just stops.

I think bee-utey pointed me in the right direction. 3rd on my 'to do' list - is replace the front passenger shock mounts - they've all but disintergrated. So there is an awful lot of movement there, it's not the smoothest of rides! I spent some time under the bonnet yesterday and checked and tightened every electrical connection I could find.

No problem since then, so fingers crossed a loose connection was the issue.

Im having exactly the same problems with my Rangie. Started fine, but then just stopped up the road. I have managed to get it started again on gas, however not on petrol. If it was the ignition system, wouldnt you not be able to run on gas?

I have replaced the fuel filter...no change. I will try testing the ignition connections.

Angus