At a loss here, 1999 FIAT SEICENTO SX with 35,000 original miles, won't start, there doesn't seem to be power going to the new ECU. Checked all fuses, not a fuel problem, replaced ECU -but it looks like there is only a spark in about half the 4 prong plug, could it be a break in the wiring between ignition & ECU? Could someone suggest a place to start?

The car will start once in a great while, I can hear what sounds like the fuel pump when the key is turned, but this has been checked, not a problem there.

Recently had a new wiper motor installed, could this have caused a problem of some sort, I know that sounds daft, but reaching for anything at this point, don't know what to check next! Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
K

Did it start before the wipermotor was fitted?

Was the ECU removed to get to the motor?

Does that car turn over OK?

Cheers

SPD

I did run twice after the wiper motor was installed, it will turn over, but never starts, The ECU was not removed to replace the wiper motor.
Cheers,
K

sparking in two of the four pronged plug isnt a problem im assuming your using bosh super four spark plugs. if so then it will take the best/easiest route for itself so wont spark from all four arms to the earth in the middle.

when it turns over does it give any signs of life? like nearly kicking in or is it just the same tone of the starter motor? (no engine noise at all?)

if the engine is giving a little kick asif its about to start try a tad of throttle, if its a carb it will help. and works on some injections too. (worked on mine first time)

obviously you had the battery off for the wiper was it off for long? my battery was off for a while and it wouldnt start had to help it along.

and last thing from me is does it bump start?

When you push in turn the ignition key, the battery light should stay on but the injector light should come on and go off, after a few second?

If you can also hear the petrol pump come on and stop after 2-3 seconds the ECU is probably ok, - they are pretty reliable?

If there is petrol on the butterfly of the throttle body the injector is ok as well?

The TDC (the engine crank shaft position detector), can fail intermittent. When it fails to start you need to try a plug lead is sparking, you need a spare plug to connect one of the leads to and leave on the cam shaft cover. It needs to spark reliably and at the correct position of the crank which is difficult to judge.

I'd be tempted to replace the TDC crossing fingers, they are expensive but fragile...

Noel

Thanks all, Still no go even with all the suggestions, Have had it to 2 garages, guess it's time to part him out, shame, just put several hundred quid in it for new muffler, wiper motor & windscreen and a few other "minor" bits & pieces.
Cheers for all the help!
Kira

Did you get new keys and code box with the new ECU, or was it properly coded in?

Cheers

SPD