8 replies to this topic

[ashc94]

Basically the car starts fine but as soon as you place it into gear the car cuts out. It happened in a Tesco car park out of all places .We have checked the spark plugs and they are working. Any help or suggestions welcome.

[station31]

Tmming OK or idle speed set correctly ?

[leigh21]

sounds like a problem with your inhibitor switch, which stops the car from actually starting in gear, Maybe someone with a bit more knowledge may be able to help?

[ashc94]

The idle speed is set correctly I believe it's a small problem but can't put my finger on it :S

[jime17]

check the wires to coil are connected ok. Check the rotor arm looks ok and contact is clean. Check carbon brush in distributor is ok. Check all ht leads making good contact. Check the points gap. change the condenser. Doubt it's the inhibitor switch. The car wouldn't start at all.

[ShoutforJoy]

If the engine fires up it's not the inhibitor switch.

Does the engine run OK in neutral? If not a full service is in order. Changing the tickover speed to correct this problem is not advised as it will exacerbate any existing transmission problems and could cost more in the long run.

Have you changed the oil and filter recently? These should be changed every 2-3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.

If these things are OK then it's likely to be something more serious that will need the attentions of someone who knows and understands the automatic transmission.

[SA MINI]

Idle speed could be too low
Quick check. Use a slight bit if choke then select gear .

There is a lot of strain on the autos compared to a manual as you are unable to rev the engine whilst finding the bite point. on an auto, if there is any weakness. Ie. weak spark , low idle, or Possibly a slight air leak this would be enough to make the engine stall

Edited by SA MINI, 04 February 2013 - 08:31 PM.

[ShoutforJoy]

You could try a stall test. Extract from AP Transmission Service Manual:

[MRA]

I wouldn't worry about the revs on the above stall test unless your car is on said list..... the newer 1275 Minis as apposed to the Austin 1300 completely different beast have a far lower stall speed.

If it tries to lurch forward as well then you have a siezed convertor there is nothing you can do except change it for agood one.

If you "slip" the automatic transmission to get it going then it will NOT last more than a month or so if you are lucky.