This problem only came about a few months ago. When starting, I wait for the heater light to go out then turn over the engine, no joy. So I continue to turn it over and eventually it starts ok. Last May I was in France on way to Alicante, and had to call out the tow truck as it would not start at all. The french driver sprayed cold start into the intakes and eventually it started. I continued my journey afraid to switch off the engine in case the problem reoccurred. But it only does it when its cold. The tow truck driver said it was the fuel on/off switch, so when I arrived in Spain I took it to our local garage and had it repaired with the said object (€175) It has been ok till recently and it is doing it again. I have an AUTOP D900 device for detecting code faults but it reads 'no faults'. The guy at the garage said his is the same. On occasions when turning the key it is completely dead, like the solenoid is buggered. ( The starter motor was new last December). But on the next turn its ok. I am baffled. Any ideas anyone ?

 

Up front I haven't worked on any diesels but have listened to many friends and relatives fixes and wows. First: it sounds like you could have a battery problem, diesels here have two batteries (usually) Check the connections and test the battery 13.5 to 14.0 Volts (engine off). If they are real bad sometimes they even hiss when you hit the key.Second: for the cold start, diesels have a glow coil for each cylinder to ignite the cold fuel when compressed, The relay could be weak(takes less heat when engine is warm)and a bad battery/connection would be in play,Three: a dirty fuel filter or a bad fuel pump motor.The fuel pressure on a diesel is OVER 5000 lbs PSI so you see the importants of a good fuel system. You didn't say how cold it was, if below 30 deg. the fuel could need a additive/ as a conditioner.so it don't gel.The system has a water separator also,any water will kill the system. This is pretty general but might help, sorry I can't be more specific. Place to start???

 

Thanks billbyork, I 'm taking it to the garage today again with those suggestions you say. I'm in Spain, nice and warm in the day time, cold at night -3, with frost on car, I almost flattened the battery today getting it started, it took about 10 goes, I eventually put jump leads on it and it went ok. Once its been run it starts no problem so you could be right. I hope so, as its becoming a pain in the neck.
Thanks mate will let you know the result.

 

A Quick update. I had a full diagnostic done with the jaguar diagnostic equipment. It pulled up one main fault. The fuel rail pressure sensor. Being fitted Monday along with a new filter. I was recommended to change garages where I get fuel as it could be cheap contaminated diesel partly to blame. The man who did the diagnostic here is an english jag specialist. e mail rscc.info@gmail.com the name is Rob and will travel to carry out tests. I believe he is the only guy in this region of Spain (Alicante) with this gear and knowledge. Highly recommended.
Mally

 

Mally: The length of time sitting didn't help the situation. I would scrutinize the fuel stations and be selective. Make sure the pump your using has a filter on it.(here they have them on the pump external.You should be using # 1 grade OR you will be changing the fuel filter often.

 

Thanks billjork, yes I noticed that. usually sat for more than 4 or 5 hours overnight seems to be worst. I have been advised to use Repsol garages as their fuel is good and filtered properly. I get the car back tomorrow so will update shortly on the results. Thanks again for your input and interest.
Mally