How do I start my peugeot 406

[harryc]

My peugeot 406 won't start. Battery OK but engine won't fire. Up to today, has always started first time.

[gingerflaps]

sounds like ur starter motor has gone, does it sluggishly turn over but not start up, if yes then its ur starter motor

[harryc]

Thanks - but it turns over fine - sounds like it's going to fire. . .  but just doesn't. . . .

[Dave.B]

It could be a few things, but all relate to either no fuel, or no spark:

Check the fuse for your fuel pump - it could be that simple.

If that's OK, sit in the car with the door open and turn the key to position 2, don't start it. Listen for a buzzing/whirring sound for about 2-3 seconds. If you don't hear it, and the fuse is good, it probably means the fuel pump is up the swanny.

If not that, it probably means that the spark plugs are not sparking, which could mean a failed coil in a single coil setup (although most cars have one coil for each spark plug nowadays, which would mean it will start but misfire).

DON'T be tempted to test for a spark the old fashioned way as this will ruin your engine management computer. If all else fails, tow the car to a Peugeot dealer, arrive at around 5:15 and offer them �20 to read the fault codes from the computer - they won't refuse.

[Dave.B]

Should have asked before I assumed it was a petrol car:

Petrol or Diesel?

[harryc]

Thanks for the advice - it's a diesel.