Technical Fiat Ducato 2.3 130 Hp 35 L with Comfortmatic - starting issues

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Technical Fiat Ducato 2.3 130 Hp 35 L with Comfortmatic - starting issues

Drifter10

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We have an 2015 Adria Twin Motorhome with Fiat 2,3 130 Hp 35 L, and Comfortmatic fitted by Fiat as an add-on option. Ever since we have had the vehicle (12 months) it has been 'moody' in starting. What happens - occasionally - is: foot on brake, turn key - nothing!!
From reading the manual many times we have learned to NOT touch the gear lever once the engine is switched off, and that most times, changing gear to neutral, and leaving for a minute or so will bring things back to normal.
However, every few days this does not work, and we have to switch off and leave it (sitting there like lemons) for around 30 mins before it will start.
Anyone else had this problem? - Fiat says there's nothing wrong!
 
Do the instrument dials flutter and click when trying to re-start when the engine's warm? Sounds like chatter and all the symptoms of a flat battery (but it's not).

We had exactly the same issues but on a much older 2008, 16k mile 3.0lt. Replaced the earth strap with a cable and put an extra earth cable in as well just to be doubly sure. https://www.fiatforum.com/ducato/424191-160-manual-non-starter-sort.html

Might be worth a try but would be unusual on such a new motor.

One way to eliminate the earth issue is, next time it happens, connect a jump lead from a good earth point on the engine to the earth bolt that Fiat provide. This bolt is by the bonnet stay on the n/s.
 
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No - all lights come on normally. Just when you turn key - nothing.
Leave alone for 2-30 mins it starts ok
 
No - all lights come on normally. Just when you turn key - nothing.
Leave alone for 2-30 mins it starts ok

carry a spare jump-lead.. when it's "DEAD" put cable from battery negative to engine metalwork,
try again..,

it's not uncommon for an earth cable to break down internally - cheap fix.

in the "olden days" you'd see the ignition lights DIM as the power went to the starter,
no dimming meant no connection - dodgy switch , etc.

Charlie
 
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