Land Rover Repair: freelander intermitant starting problem, airflow meter, cylinder compression

Question
Dear John

I have a Freelander Td4 diesel Es 3 door born in 2001 and I am having problems with it starting at most it wont start about twice a week. The engine turns over but it sounds like it wont fire!. after about five attempts it starts. Taken it to a garage but they cant find anything wrong they say it could be an eletrical fault but are unsure. It has been kept up to date with services. The previous owner had just had a new Airflow meter.
Any ideas please help!


Nicola

Answer
Hi Nicola,

starting problems can be difficult to track down but here is a few areas to consider:

immobiliser faults
ignition timing incorrect
preheating system faulty
fuel cut-off solenoid faults
air in fuel system
camshalf or other major mechanica failure

I'd check the ignition timing first.  A friend recently went thru 20 hours of checking and rechecking plugs, fuel pump, filters, cylinder compression, o2 sensors...the engine would just not turn over successfully.  It was suggested that he examine the timing belt and ... 10 hours later...he finally did.  Lo and behold...the timing belt was off just slightly...enough to throw-off the ignition.

Best of luck,

JohnMc