Thread: 300 tdi intermittently wont start

The solenoid is actually the first version that has a rubber boot over the plunger, before it was superseded by a newer part number that has no boot.
But yeah, this one had some type of old grease residue or something in it and was as sticky as glue!
Cheers

Originally Posted by donh54

My 97 model had one

My 98 didn't.

Originally Posted by edddo

I have had the test light connected to the solenoid for a few days and about 20 starts now. It has lit up and started perfectly each time.
Prior to that it was about one non start episode each 3 starts.
All I have done is clean up the solenoid terminals. Could it really be that easy?
I have ordered a new starter motor and starter relay anyway in the name of having as much confidence in the reliability of the car as possible.
With an auto you dont have the option of a tow start.

I deem this problem fixed.
It was just dirty solenoid terminals.

Originally Posted by edddo

... I don't think just cleaning the solenoid terminals will be the fix - life is not like that...

I like the apparent irony. Glad it's sorted for you (fingers crossed).

Haha yes
Apparently current and future experiences are not completely determined by previous ones
Who would have thought?

problem back again.
What will be the cause this time......?

Seems to be a different issue this time.
As far as I can tell there is no power to the solenoid....that will explain my symptoms - but what has happened to cause that??

Now I am hopeless with electrics so any advice welcome!
So....2 things come to mind:

A fuse - where do I look for the fuse - is there a fuse description diagram here some where - I will have a look

The starter motor relay - mentioned earlier in this thread but I never did get to replacing it. Re this - this relay is apparently 1 of the 4 behind the panel next the accelerator pedal.
Which one is it?
There is one above the other 3 that is the easiest to access - anyone know?

thanks

Run a wire from battery to solenoid and see if it starts, when mine did this it was the alarm module.