Cold Start Issue - Glow Plugs

[CodeCruiser]

Hi,

I am having trouble starting my 2.0 D4D avensis in cold weather. When i turn on the switch, within a second the glow plug sign disappears and i hear a tick. It takes 5-6 attempts to start the car. I checked for fault codes and there are none.

Is it relay or the actual glow plugs?

[Duggerz]

I'd measure the resistance if the glow plugs to check there isn't an internal short in one of them. I think they should measure a few ohms when New but that changes as they age. Disconnect then before you measure. Once disconnected you could also energise the relay, making sure that the live feed is safe of course. And see when the light goes out.

[CodeCruiser]

Thanks for suggestion.

Not something I have done before. Will try though. Do you know where the relay is located?

[Duggerz]

I don't, it would depend on the model, but I'd disconnect at the plugs and insulate the live, do you shouldn't need to disconnect anything from the relay unless it's actually faulty.

[CodeCruiser]

Given that there is no fault code and that relay always ticks straight after turning on the switch, I was thinking that the fault lies with relay. Otherwise, the glow plug sign should stay on for longer and relay should still turn the glow plugs on for 10-12 seconds even if plugs are faulty.

[Siri]

Hi. I had poor cold starting on my 2007 d4d 2.0 a few years ago and took it to toyota. They said all ok but probably moisture in tank. They suggested there fuel cleaner to disperse the water. I use Shell v power now and do not have starting issues and have just done over 100K. If the temp is below 5.c I let the glow plug light go out > switch off and switch on again> let the glow plug light go out > wait 5 seconds or so and then start.

Some times it is worth just waiting for a few seconds more after light goes out as the plugs may still be heating up. The glow plug light usually only stays on for a few seconds.

Hope this helps

[CodeCruiser]

Thanks for the tip Siri.

Two glow plugs were gone. Replaced all 4. Car does manage to start now after turning ignition on and off a few times. Timing of plugs is still a problem (due to relay i believe).