2006 2.5 TDI Auto. Slow Crank at Startup. Hot and Cold.

[Adrian Z]

Hey all,

Yesterday, after a trip of about 50k's, the thing was somewhat reluctant to restart, although it eventually did after 3 attempts. The first time, virtually nothing...just dash lights and some clicking sounds. My immediate thought was that the alternator hadn't been charging properly and was on the way out and or that the battery had died or something. Second attempt, it turned over a little bit more eagerly, but still nothing. Third attempt better again and eventually starting.

This morning, same thing. 3 goes, then bingo..it starts.

I read somewhere that the earth terminals (in some weird spot) typically don't connect properly?

Anyway, input would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

Adrian

[Transporter]

How old is the battery? Get it tested or replace it and take it from there.

[Adrian Z]

Hi Transporter,

Thanks for the reply...appreciated.

The post was a complete, in frustration, knee jerk response! I hadn't checked a thing!

Will do as you suggest and post the result.

Thanks again.

Regards,

Adrian

[T5 Double off road]

Hi, with the way you describe your starting problem - my money would be on the bad Earth or even the Positive having a bad connection - why well after you have had a couple of go's to start - the place where the bad connection is gets hot - the metal expands and makes a little better contact whilst burning hot! Batteries on the other hand if they are week only get worse the more goes you try!

[Adrian Z]

Hi T5 Double Offroad. I had read that on another post and thought that as well. I didn't realise that my brother had obtained roadside assist from the RACV just after purchasing the van about a month ago. A pleasant surprise. I called the RACV and they came out and diagnosed that the starter had failed. They tried to jump start it, but there was nothing. Didn't even turn over. The thing seemed to be locked solid. After a short while, we could smell the starter! Roadside assist entitled me to a free tow up to 30 kilometres, so I had it towed to a nearby auto elec to fit a new starter. Should be ready for pick up later on today. Starting to think that maybe I should have bought a Toyota!

[Adrian Z]

New starter fitted. All good...for now!