Vauxhall Zafira difficult starting in cold wether

Car: Vauxhall Zafira
Variant: 2.0 dti diesel
Model Year: 2004
Categories: Running Rough, Starting & Power Loss
I often have trouble starting the car if it has been left in my garage for a week or so during colder weather times ( no problems in Spring or Summer). The engine just turns over and does eventually start after about 3 attempts. I have added redex fuel system cleaner each time i fill up with diesel but still the problem persists.
Can anyone help fix this ?
Posted: Nov 11, 2009 (14 years ago)
Try testing the Glow Plugs or the heater plug relay !! when you get it started does it run lumpy for a short while ?
Posted Nov 11, 2009 (14 years ago)
The heater plugs have been checked but not the hp relay. Will have to investigate. Car runs perfectly once it's started.
Thank's for advice.
Posted Nov 11, 2009 (14 years ago)
sounds like a slight air leak in the fuel system allowing the fuel to seep back towards the tank. when you crank the engine over your priming the system hence the 2 or 3 attempts at starting.
the rubber fuel spill off pipes become brittle in cold weather and may crack. the fuel filter housing is plastic and the temp change could cause the seal to become less effective. i doubt its heater relay as this normally shuts the engine down if defective although always worth having it tested.
another common fault is the copper injector seals, the temp change may be enough for them to loose an air tight seal.
to be honest though, if its starting after 2 or 3 attempts after being sat in a garage for a week or so in cold weather, i wouldnt be too concerned. cheaper supermarket fuel will also cause issues in cold weather due to the higher water content often found in them.
Posted Oct 12, 2014 (10 years ago)

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