None starter

2001 Vauxhall Zafira
Car: Vauxhall Zafira
Year: 2001
Categories: Running Rough, Starting & Power Loss
a car i have had for 2/3 months will not start off the key but will bump start with no problems, when i turn the key there is nothing no click from the solenoid, there is no dimming of the lights etc, every thing on the car works ok, the central locking has never worked, but will work off the key , is the problem the starter/solenoid/immobiliser ? the car cost £600, and is in very good condition,drives well my wife and i do like this car, has anyone had this problem and what did you do to fix it, i did see a forum quoting a ecu unit fault similar to this they said it would be a £800 fix. can you help ! ?
Problem added: Jun 12, 2014 (9 years ago)
If it will start off a bump I would say its not an immobiliser issue, as the immobiliser disables the ignition also. So don't panic I'd just say it was the starter, I had 2 go on my zafira, they have 4 brushes and two wear but often get overlooked by repair shops as 2 are sort of hidden from sight when the starter is apart. I know as I missed them also. Have you tried tapping the starter?

Iirc use a long bar like half a broom handle and slot it down just to the right of the manifold.between some cables You can reach the top of the starter, and whack it!🔨
Answered Jun 12, 2014 (9 years ago)
thanx tony811976 the car is a 1.6 16 valve, i will have a go and see if i can get at the starter myself once thank you,

Answered Jun 13, 2014 (9 years ago)
Ok. Yeah that's the same as the one I had, I would honestly say its the starter, its a bit of a pig to get at but straight forward if you have tools
Answered Jun 13, 2014 (9 years ago)
hi tony911976 i checked the starter motor, i could not reach the nuts but after removing the plastic cover at the back of the engine i got to nuts i never removed them, a mate next door to said hit the starter with a hammer , i hit the starter and solenoid with a socket then tried the starter and it started i dont know if its the bushes but i do know the problem is the starter, thax again for your help
Answered Jun 16, 2014 (9 years ago)
Glad its ok. For now.

A good sharp blow will often shock a starter back into life.

What's happened is the brushes have worn down and got stuck in their carrier.
By hitting it they just jump back down to contact the armature

You shout have no problems for a while but carry something to hit hit with you

Don't forget about it tho it does mean it will need new brushes soon
Answered Jun 16, 2014 (9 years ago)

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