22 replies to this topic

[Jammy]

I think you'll find the temp guage thing could be something to do with the engine earth strap, which may also account for the non starting. I'm quite tired at the moment, so can't think clearly, but am thinking something about positive earth to the engine block, hence why the temp sender is reading, in affect, opposite.

[JSnowDude]

Hi,

I've just been over all the earths I can find and cleaned all the contacts the engine strap was quite corroded so I cleaned it all up and the engine temp sensor is fine now! Thanks for that, HOWEVER, the car is rather stubborn and still refuses to start. I have noticed that the ignition lights are no longer coming on and my after market alarm doesn't seem to do anything when I press the buttons, I have tried the second key fob and that made no difference (The battery is fine.)

If anyone can solve this either through a post or popping round (Reading area) then there's a crate of beer with your name on it!

[Retro_10s]

hope you get this fixed.... sounds tricky

Edited by Retro_10s, 09 October 2006 - 01:57 PM.

[dude]

My SPi did this after a head gasket change.

It was the ECU. Try unplugging it and then reconnecting it after a while, will reset itself.
Bit of a buggwhat but check every sensor is connected before re plugging it in.

Failing that i would say it was the immob.

Good luck.


You're gonna need it.

[fikus01]

i know you checked all the earth but the only time i found a problem similar to this it was a bad connection where the battery earth bolts to the car!!

[JSnowDude]

Checked the Battery earth and cleaned the connection, however, the battery is draining within two days of reconnecting and it is less than a year old! Any ideas based on this new info?

[fikus01]

do i remember you saying you had an aftermarket alarm?? that could be malfunctioning!! a faulty alternator or starter can drain the battery if its gone wrong!! failing that clean up all the terminals on the fuse box!! could be the reason ur lights wont light up!!

check the voltage whilst running!! should be about 13.5v i think any lower than 12.5 with the engine running is sign of alternator giving up!! they do run upto 14v tho!!

mite just be time to start changing things starting with the cheapest to see what helps it!! rather than re-using old ones replace the earth straps!! internal resistance in them mite be hindering the start tho i doubt it!!

if it still wont start!! im at a loss!! have u tried hitting anything with a hammer or swearing at it lots??

[JSnowDude]

Hey guys,

Great news! The Mini is running again!!!!!!

The fault was as follows:

Bad Earth to the ECU and a broken wire in the loom.

Next stop getting through the MOT, I've got to refurb the radius arms!

Thanks to everyone for their suggestions

Jusitn