Hi
ive had my 1.4 bravo for a few years and its generally been ok. Had a problem for the last 3-4 weeks though, where my engine starts intermitently (i.e some days it will start up fine, others it wont). The starter motor seems to work (i.e. it turns over) but on many occasions (50:50) the engine fails to fire up (which is eventfull when trying to leave for/getting outa work). Sometimes after much percistance, leaving my foot down on the gas and nearly making the battery die, it has started although sputtering etc. In most cases, (when failing to start) ive had to push start the car (with mates, car park attendents etc) in order to start the car, although recently this has taken up to four good attempts. Once started it runs fine and will restart no problem if turned off. On occasions though, it will have difficulty restarting after say 10mins and more so after 30mins etc.....Ive taken it into the garage a few times (even left it with them for a few days) and typically its always behaved and fires up. Have changed HT leads and sparks incase, but still no different. I dont think its weather dependent either. Any ideas!!!!! Think it maybe a lose wire or something, since if i dont move the car, it will remain to operate the same (i.e start 1st time or not at all). would appreciate any advice as this seems to has stump even my "car knowledgeable" mates. cheers

it restarts fine once warmed up, but if its allowed to cool for more than 10 mins it wont start. that sounds like it isnt trying to do a cold start when it should. replace the intake air temp sensor, built into the throttle case.




also idle management is based on the coolant temp sensor on the 1.4 model, if your temp gauge is giving suspect results and the idle is below 1000rpm when started from cold, i would change it.

also very important on the 1.4 is battery voltage. if its low this can happen. i would make sure your battery is in good condition, topped up, fully charged, and providing good cold cranking amps. if it isnt then the starter motor will turn but the ignition wont work, not uncommon on the 1.4s.