Land Rover Repair: 95 Discovery wont start, merry christmas and happy new year, auto wrecker

Question
Hello John,

I have recently had a problem with my 95 Discovery in that it won't turn the engine over.  It started a few days ago, and the engine clicks once and it sounds like the fuel pump is running.  

Of course I think it's the starter, but I wanted to run this by you in case you have any other ideas (the starters are so expensive, and the car just isn't that old).

Thanks for any advice you may have.

Lee Means

Answer
Hi Lee,

here's what I'd to before going to a dealer:

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 doing nothing.

IF there is no 12 volt reading, it could be your 'spider' immobiliser and that is even worse news.  $$$cha-ching!

I've been told that the spider is serviceable by DIY'ers but you'll have to gain access to it via 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.

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; spider and ECU.

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

NB:  Merry Christmas and happy New Year.