My Freelander doesnt like starting when cold

BILLY27

MEMBER
2000 LAND ROVER FREELANDER
78,000 MILES

Hello,

I have a 2000 'X' reg Landrover Freelander commercial, currently with 78,000 miles on the clock. The car drives fine and runs brilliantly, however, it doesnt like starting when cold! When the engines warm, not a problem, when cold it splutters into life after about 10 to 15 seconds. I have had the glow plugs changed and ran some injector cleaner through the fuel system, but it has made no difference. The battery is also new. What else could it be?

Look forward to your response

7 Replies

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,814 POSTS

Cold start problems are usually due to the glow plug or its circuit.

Was the glow plug circuits tested?

Another possible cause would be the fuel lines. If a return hose or somewhere along the fuel lines has a leakage, air can get into system. When this occurs, the fuel pump would need some cranking to get the engine started.

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Tuesday, October 9th, 2012 AT 7:28 PM

BILLY27

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5 POSTS

Hi,
thanks for your response. I dont think the glow plug circuit was tested no. I have inspected the engine and im satisfied there are no leaks, certainly nothing obvious. I know that when the glow plugs wre changed the diesel return pipe was found to be corroded at the connection, but this was replaced with a screw tight bracket, which I have not had a problem with since. In relation to the fuel lines, would this not occur when the engine is also hot? Because it is literally when the vehicle been left sitting for 5 hours plus.

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Tuesday, October 9th, 2012 AT 8:27 PM

KHLOW2008

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41,814 POSTS

A minor leak would not allow sufficient air to get into system, especially the return line. Afte sitting for long hours, the fuel filters etc being at a higher position would allow air to seep into system.

I have encountered many such cases and the leaks are mainly dampness around joints usually.

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Tuesday, October 9th, 2012 AT 8:42 PM

BILLY27

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5 POSTS

Ok cool,

for the sake of � 10, is it worth changing the fuel filter? It does actually look like its never been changed.
And is it worth putting some strong tape around the fuel joints etc?

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Tuesday, October 9th, 2012 AT 8:53 PM

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
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If the fuel filter is long overdue, replacing it would be agood idea.

Tapes do not help. Ensure the clamps are secure and if it is of the spring type and hoses are still in good condition, ie still soft, relocating the seated position might help. If hoses are hardened, replacing them would be advised.