Renault 1.9 DTI: Starting Problems?

Hello everyone,

A friend is having a problem with his Renault Megane 1.9DTI... the starter motor is turning, you can visibly see fuel flowing through the lines, but the engine isn't starting.

If you crank it for 3-4-5 times, it starts with a slight hesitation, but then runs without any problems.

The car has 216,000 kilometers on the odometer, and the last service was 5,000 kilometers ago.
Where should we start looking...? I was already thinking about the diesel filter, but fuel is definitely being supplied... The glow plugs are new (although they shouldn't be the problem now)... He also has a new battery... and the error memory is EMPTY .

Hi.

How do you see the fuel flowing?

I can only see it if there are air bubbles present. And those air bubbles are precisely what cause the poor starting.

If there are actually bubbles in it, please seal the air hoses to prevent any more air from getting in.

m;

'I also have these bubbles in my Golf (III+IV) TDI and in my Leon when the engine is off... as soon as the starter motor runs, they disappear.'

Is it the same with the Renault? I mean, I don't think the problem lies there. Or do you think the 'leaking' is caused by the (necessary) bleeding?

It's very likely that the bubbles are related to the starting problem. Please check the fuel lines for loose clamps or any leaks in the system.

So, it was a leaky fuel line...it was really hard to find...but thank you .