Hi all - apologies if this is a common problem; did have a look but couldn't see anything!

I have an intermittant starting problem with my 1.4 "R" reg Bravo. When I turn the key, the start motor just seems to spin madly without engaging the engine. Then, once I've turned it off for a while, it will start (a little unethusiastically).

Do I simply need to replace the starter motor (or get it rebuilt) or may this be a symptom of something more serious?

any help greatly appreciated.

best wishes
Ian

If you only use your car for short trips especially at night then you could try charging the battery overnight to make sure the problem isn't that. However, if the starter is not engaging with the flywheel and also turning slowly when it does then the starter motor would seem to be the first place to look for trouble. Swap it for a new one and if the problem remains then I guess you will be looking at the battery and charging circuits.

Only other thing it could be is flywheel but I have never heard of that on a Bravo/Brava,needs a starter motor mate (solenoid aint pushing starter gear out far enough) or you can be like me (lazy & tight) & put up with it,lasted last 3 years-saying that I got spare in the boot

Re: Starting problem - start motor related

thought as much - will change it shortly. Just hoping to avoid it since it looks an awkward job.

cheers for your advice,
Ian