my car fettled and died a few weeks ago. when i turn the key the engen turns over and sparks but it wont go. have changed distributer and wires and have changed fuel and fuses still will not go. is it the imoblizer? (the fule pump and start moter is ok tooo)

lyndie, April 2009

Have you checked the cam (timing) belt? I'm afraid this is where I'd look first, if it has snapped it's a fairly expensive repair.The cam belt is enclosed in a plastic casing, dont confuse it with the auxiliary belt(s) which drive the power steering pump, alternator etc..

If that's O.K. put some petrol in the tank (dont trust the petrol gauge, it may be faulty).

When you try to start the car is there a light flashing on the dashboard near the speedo and rev counter?
If so, then it's probably an immobiliser fault.
Are you opening the car with the key in the lock or with the remote? You must open the car with the remote to switch off the immobiliser. If it's not working try the spare key.
The immo can be bypassed, look in your handbook for "engine immobiliser temporary bypass".

biffo, April 2009