P38A Immobiliser??

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rob evans

Active Member
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313
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ANGLESEY
Hi, it's a while since I needed help /advice but the time has come... My 2001 4.6 had to have a new battery two weeks ago and since then it's been fine. However came to get it it today and it seems dead. Everything seems to work but the engine will not turn over, there's nothing not even an attempt to crank over. This happened immediately before the battery change. Then the AA got her going, had the battery checked and changed (no charge as still 3 months left on the guarantee). When the new battery was fitted, the AA checked for any faults and power drain but all was fine, no problems. Today as I said I can get in her no problem and lights, blower all work fine but it's like there's no engine nothing.. If it is the immobiliser is there a process to turn itith the key? Or anything that I can do to start her up.. I am disabled so limited to what I can do (broken back). Any suggestions I would welcome.. Robert
 
I take it you use the remote fob to get in?
And that you don't have a message on the dash saying "engine disable" or anything else?
If no messages then I would think its not immobilsed.

I would look at the actual starter circuit perhaps starting with the relay, then the wiring to the starter.

J
 
I take it you use the remote fob to get in?
And that you don't have a message on the dash saying "engine disable" or anything else?
If no messages then I would think its not immobilsed.

I would look at the actual starter circuit perhaps starting with the relay, then the wiring to the starter.

J
+1, when it has immobilised itself you get "Engine Immobilised" on the console display and it won't turn the engine over. So if that's not showing and your fobs unlock/lock the vehicle its a bit odd.
 
+1, when it has immobilised itself you get "Engine Immobilised" on the console display and it won't turn the engine over. So if that's not showing and your fobs unlock/lock the vehicle its a bit odd.
Thank you for your replies. I have used the key fob yes to gain entry and no message's on the dash... However I have just been to her again and used the key to get in. Only the driver door unlocked this time but as soon as I put the key in the ignition all the other doors opened. Then she started straight away. I assume there must be a problem with the key fob?? Or at least I hope that's the case as if so at least I can trust it to start by using the key??
 
Thank you for your replies. I have used the key fob yes to gain entry and no message's on the dash... However I have just been to her again and used the key to get in. Only the driver door unlocked this time but as soon as I put the key in the ignition all the other doors opened. Then she started straight away. I assume there must be a problem with the key fob?? Or at least I hope that's the case as if so at least I can trust it to start by using the key??
There is one other thing I forgot to say... About three weeks ago the amplifier stopped working and before that one of the subwoofer speakers was crackling a lot. Don't know if this has any bearing on the the problem now but I have only had this issue since the amplifier went??
 
There is one other thing I forgot to say... About three weeks ago the amplifier stopped working and before that one of the subwoofer speakers was crackling a lot. Don't know if this has any bearing on the the problem now but I have only had this issue since the amplifier went??

That sounds like the DSP amp in the boot. Might be water ingress or just failure.

Sounds like the microswitch in the door might not be workings. Marty's test sheet is posted somewhere.

What RF receiver have you got and is it plugged in? Later models sync the key in the ignition. Best to use the fob rather than the key.

Try EKA if it still won't start but is needs all 3 microswitches in the door working. Earth strap on engine a known issue with earlier models. Also yhe EAS pump uses the same fuse as the start on some models. Check the fuse and unplug compressor if blown and then try to start with a new fuse fitted.
 
When was the last time you changed batteries in the fob?
Worth an easy check;).
Does your boot open ok?
J
 
When was the last time you changed batteries in the fob?
Worth an easy check;).
Does your boot open ok?
J
Yes my doors open fine with the key fob (all open as they should). The battery was last charged about 12 months ago or so. But as I say it opens the doors OK first time??
 
Humm the test sheet opens on my computer but not my android phone, dont know now to sort that, unless some one else has any ideas.
 
Not had that before, had to create pdf (which it won’t let me?)

See here if you can zoom in-

262E91D9-8FA0-4E62-A4E5-0F49667905A9.jpeg
5AD784AF-18AE-4B67-AB74-70B35F7A9ADE.jpeg
 
Thank you Rangeroller, yes I can expand your post to be able to read it clearly. I will see what I can do (physically), but the process seems straight forward enough. If not at least now know the test and can explain/show someone less physically challenged. Thanks again for the time you have all taken to help..
 
Hi there @rob evans , just a thought for you but when it next fails to start on the key with no error message on the dash give the gear selector a sharp slap forward with your hand and try again.
Then if that does not work as an alternative select neutral and try starting again.

I think your XYZ switch & cable are out of adjustment. Even if the key works and everything else is fine, if the car thinks it is not in Park or Neutral it wont spin over because this is a failsafe.
I had exactly the same issue with my car a few months ago. Even though it was showing as being in Park, and pushing the selector forwards would allow me to start.
I have since had the cable adjusted and the problem is gone.
 
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