Vauxhall Combo Van Problems
If you’re a Vauxhall Combo van owner experiencing intermittent starting problems, you’re not alone. These frustrating issues can leave you scratching your head. In this article, we’ll delve into some common problems discussed by van owners on a forum and explore potential solutions to help you get your vehicle back on the road reliably.
The Mysterious Intermittent Starting Problem
One van owner shared their woes regarding a Vauxhall Combo van that’s turning over but not consistently starting. Despite visits to local garages and diesel specialists, the root cause of the issue remains elusive.
The Fuel Filter Factor
To tackle the problem, the van initially had its fuel filter replaced by a local garage. However, this replacement didn’t resolve the intermittent starting problem, leading the owner to seek further assistance.
Diagnosis Dilemma
The van was then taken to two diesel specialists. The first specialist identified fault codes related to the EGR valve, engine temperature sensor, and fuel temperature sensor. These sensors were replaced, but the van continued to display the same fault codes, prompting suspicions of a wiring fault between the two sensors.
Auto Electrician Hurdle
Seeking an auto electrician’s expertise, the van owner faced resistance from local auto electricians, who believed that the van should return to a diesel specialist for diagnosis. This roadblock left the owner with limited options for addressing the issue.
Starter Motor Replacement
The second diesel specialist came to a similar conclusion regarding the fault codes but diagnosed a faulty starter motor that caused the battery voltage to drop, resulting in the van’s failure to start. A new starter motor and battery were installed, but the problem persisted.
Community Suggestions
The van owner turned to the forum community for advice and suggestions, hoping to shed light on the mysterious issue. Several forum members offered potential solutions and shared their experiences with similar problems:
- ECU on Fuel Pump: One member shared a similar experience with an Astra, where the issue was traced back to a faulty ECU on the fuel pump. The soldered joints on the ECU had failed, preventing fuel flow and causing starting problems. Replacing the ECU resolved the issue.
- Chaffed Wiring: Another member had intermittent issues with their van and found that chaffed wiring to the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) was the culprit. This issue was identified through a meticulous process of elimination by checking cables.
- Glow Plug Temperature Sensor: Some members suggested checking the glow plug temperature sensor. It was noted that certain ECUs only activate glow plugs when temperatures are freezing, and issues with this sensor could affect starting in cold conditions.
A Step Towards Resolution
To pinpoint the issue, the community recommended several steps:
- Check for voltage at the glow plug circuit during ignition.
- Investigate whether the fuel is draining back into the tank when parked, potentially leading to air in the fuel system.
- Examine the spill-off pipes and rubber on top of injectors for signs of perishing or air leakage.
- Verify the condition of the meg connection to the starter, adding a ground strap between the battery negative and starter negative post if needed.
Conclusion
Intermittent starting problems in Vauxhall Combo vans can be challenging to diagnose and resolve. As seen in the forum discussions, a systematic approach to troubleshooting is essential. Whether the issue is related to fuel drainage, ECU problems, or wiring, taking these steps and seeking professional assistance when needed can help van owners regain confidence in their vehicles’ reliability.