Technical OBD2 cable and starting issue

[avo]

Hi, First post for me even though I've browsed the forums a number of times over the last few years for help. So a belated thanks for the help.

Unfortunately I'm in need of some more specific help with the misuses car which is all I need as I've just finished replacing the timing belt and water pump on my van and the motorbike is in bits at the moment as I wrestle with a siezed rear brake caliper and new chain.

The 1.9JTD has recently developed an intermittent starting problem that catches us out every now and again but if left for 30 mins or so it seems to resolve itself. A few searches on here have pointed to a possible problem with the crank sensor.

I've also seen some recent advice on buying a OBD2 cable from ebay and using the free software to get any diagnostic codes.

I have a couple of questions.

1) Does the crank sensor sound like possible suspect?

2) Will any OBD2 to USB cable do or am I looking for a specific type? There are loads on ebay but never seem to list fiat as a compatible model. Usually VW Audi Alfa etc.

Cheers.

 

[JamesAtthews]

Hi and Welcome

I'm not sure about the starting issue, although it does sound likely given other posts on the forum about it.

I recently bought an OBD cable from ebay for £9.99, which was about the cheapest I could find (Yorkshireman - short arms, deep pockets). Mine too, was compatible with lots of cars, but as the OBD socket is an industry standard, then this should be true of any OBD cable. I downloaded the ECU FiatScan software as the versions that came with the cable were all corrupted.

Once installed, the Fiat software asks you which car it is connected to, and from this point, it gives you model specific information, and tells you any error codes etc, as well as showing live information on the computer.

The only techy bit with setting it up to work with my computer was choosing the correct port in the Control Panel of Vista, although 7 may work without fault.

Hopefully you should get yours working without fault, and will be able to diagnose your problems.

Cheers

James

 

[pete123]

I Would go with the crank sensor as its cheap and sounds like the cause of ur problem have known cars not to fire up when this has failed some run then just die out so its worth a try

 

[momoe]

Is the key code light staying on when you have the starting problems?

 

[avo]

Hi, Thanks for the replies. I went ahead and purchased the cable and the 3 colour adapters £20 but since discovered that the colour adapters are only required for ABS, Airbag and CAN the cable works fine on its own but i've also discovered a fault on the airbag as well :roll eyes: handy to have the adapters I suppose.

The engine faults that came up (although not currently active) included the Airflow sensor (think this is the MAF sensor) and the RPM Sensor (Crank)

The software is a great bit of kit. Spent a while just turning on and off various relays and lights ruled out the fuel pump anyway.

I've cleared all the codes and will check again once It fails to start.

The code light does not stay on when it fails to start and I'd assume this would be an immobiliser problem?

I'll keep you posted. Cheers