So,

I had to make a short journey last night and the CEL was on (was not on the day before). I made the journey, got home and ordered a code reader for delivery today.

Went to the car today and it would not start in Park. The engine cranked over , but no start. I put it in N and the car started first time. Anyhow, I then switched off and used the code reader. It showed P0231. I've looked this up and it appears to be a readback to the ecu to verify the fuel pump has voltage. As far as I'm aware, this would not stop the car driving (as the fuel pump does actually have voltage) - it's just a warning saying it can't see any.

Anyhow, I understand that the starting issue may be the N switch, so that's no big deal at the moment either and won't stop me driving until I get a new one.

What I don't understand is that I'm led to believe, if the N switch is faulty, then the engine would not even crank over in Park - but it did, it just wouldn't start??
Also, a few minutes later, it did start in Park??

Any ideas guys?

 

I think that there is adjustment on the switch, it is below the gear shift bezel, do not quote me on this as I am going from my old memory. Look in the Service Manual before you strip it apart.

 

Thanks buddy.
What I didn't understand was that it cranked in Park, but did not fire / run.
It started immediately when I put it in N??

Any ideas on that?

 

Well,

I think it was just coincidence it started in neutral!.
It's still playing around and only intermittently starting in either park or N.

Re-checked the codes and have a P0341 up - camshaft sensor. Will try to get one tomorrow!!

 

I would suggest only Bosch parts and replacing the CRANKshaft sensor, too. They are prone to leaving one stranded.

At least have one in your cubby for future, IMMEDIATE use.

 

CPS going bad or...


Could be a fuel relay going bad in the relay control module.
Have seen the coils work/not work intermittently.

 

Thanks chaps.
I got the cam sensor from a local supplier today and fitted. All seems ok now and fault gone. I bought a spare as well!!
As suggested, I'll order a crank sensor as well and leave them in the car.