QuestionThis morning I warmed up my Disco and it turned over fine, like always. I came out to then wipe off the snow a few minutes later and it was not running. It then didn't want to turn over. I tried to jump start it with the another vehicle as I thought it may be a battery issue. No luck. If it wants to turn over, but does not, what might I be looking at? Any suggestions?
AnswerHi Bryan,
I don't think its your starter since you say it is trying to start but no "HURRAH". It could be spark related, perhaps the coil is faulty or the spark amplifier module is failing. It is also possible that the immobiliser unit (SPIDER), which is very bad news.
I've been told that the spider is serviceable by DIY'ers but you'll have to gain access to it by removing the dashboard. Once your dashboard is disassembled, you can check for soldering failures on the spider, a common problem. Re-soldering has been known to work but it can come back to haunt you in later years. Not a good design.
My logic is that if the cause is NOT the starter, you have to take a step back an look at what directs the starter to function: ignition switch, battery, spark plug & wires, coil, spider and finally ECU.
JUST IN CASE, here's a way to test your starter motor. It is quite possible that it is trying to work but its not good enough:
Make sure all wires are firmly attached to the starter - nothing loose or broken.
Pull the lead wire from the solenoid and attach a multimeter probe to the wire.
If there is a 12 volt reading on the end of the lead wire, the problem is your starter motor as it is getting power but unable to turn the engine over.
IF there is NO 12 volt reading, it could be your 'spider' immobiliser and that is even worse news. $$$cha-ching!
If it is the starter, you could save yourself a bundle by looking for a replacement from reputable auto wrecker.
www.car-part.com
Best of luck,
JohnMc
