550 starting problems

[michael sundler]

My 550 has intermittent starting problems - on key turn sometimes it fires up perfectly, other times nothing (no engine crank and some of the dash lights go out!). I’ve tried different fobs (even the red one) and that makes no difference.
Any ideas anybody?

[markiii]

starter motor? battery? ground connection?

[belfry]

Sounds like a stuck starter motor. On my old Defender I give it a few taps to free it up.

[TwoMinds]

This ferrarichat thread (which I haven't read in detail) seems to eventually focus on the immobilizer.

https://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/threads/2000-550...

[john_1983]

Could also be new fuseboard time, mine has issues

[cgt2]

I've experienced most 550 issues over the years, it's probably your ancient immobiliser as mentioned above. Do you have the red remote? A good auto electrician should be able to either fix it or wire a bypass to the system. What was cutting edge in the 90's is ancient technology now.

[michael sundler]

Still trying to get to the bottom of it….. 9 times out it 10 no key start and then it will start for 6 or so times then revert to no start. When it doesn’t respond other remotes and even the red one have no effect. Very intermittent and frustrating. I suspect the immobilizer and will speak to the Ferrari dealer this week when I take my 458 for service.

[priley]

I just had a similar thing on my 355 and it was the immobiliser which has now been bypassed.