Astra 1.9cdti Not starting glow plugs?

[Casa1862]

I’ve got a 2008 Astra 1.9cdti 150.

Been a great reliable car, 1st time ever it’s not started, battery and started motor were changed about 3 years ago they seem fine but just doesn’t turn over. I did a pedal test and error ECR 038008 came up, no other codes, it is -2 outside so they would be needed. I’ve had the car from new and don’t remember getting the glow plugs changed so done well to last this long.

Question, is it almost certainly reporting correctly and it’s the glow plugs, is it a relatively easy DIY job, I’m thinking of replacing all 4 as they seem to be about £75 for 4, I’ve done a egr before but that’s my limit!

Other option is to get AA home start out and get them to tow it to a local garage, any idea how much typically garages charge for glow plug replacement? Does the AA carry these type of spares? I’d like to have a go myself and save the hassle and cost.

[Brian_996TT]

i don’t think glow plugs would stop it starting. I’d probably check if the fuel filter is full of diesel

[Vintagejock]

You say it isn't turning over? Do you mean the engine is turning when you try and start it?

[Casa1862]

Brian_996TT said:

i don’t think glow plugs would stop it starting. I’d probably check if the fuel filter is full of diesel

Before I knew how to get a fault code I thought it was fuel related and used a Jerry can to top it up as fuel was a little low, about 70 miles on the trip computer. Thanks I’ll try to find out how to check the fuel filter first.

[Casa1862]

Vintagejock said:

You say it isn't turning over? Do you mean the engine is turning when you try and start it?

It’s trying to catch but it’s like there is no fuel in it, as the other poster has just mentioned it could be the fuel filter, I’ve hardly used the car and for the last couple of years only had the oil changed d not a full service, maybe that’s what it needs.

[Brian_996TT]

if you had to top up the filter i’d say the fuel pump isn’t running. if you lift the back seat and there’s four wires then the pump is in the tank

[Casa1862]

Brian_996TT said:

if you had to top up the filter i’d say the fuel pump isn’t running. if you lift the back seat and there’s four wires then the pump is in the tank

Thanks for the reply, I’ve not checked the fuel filter yet, I only suspected it might be low fuel and thought it was an easy thing to try first. If it’s a fuel pump issue then beyond my capabilities, I’ve got full AA so might as well try them first as you can probably tell I’ve little knowledge!!

[Brian_996TT]

Casa1862 said:

Brian_996TT said:

if you had to top up the filter i’d say the fuel pump isn’t running. if you lift the back seat and there’s four wires then the pump is in the tank

Thanks for the reply, I’ve not checked the fuel filter yet, I only suspected it might be low fuel and thought it was an easy thing to try first. If it’s a fuel pump issue then beyond my capabilities, I’ve got full AA so might as well try them first as you can probably tell I’ve little knowledge!!

Yes you may as well call them out as they will have an obd reader and should be able to tell you the fault

[Casa1862]

Thanks for all the help, turned out to be a duff battery! I thought it was less than 3 years old but turned out to be more closer to 5 years. Original battery lasted 8 years and the replacement was the same GM part so assumed life would be about the same. AA charged £135 fitted for a Bosch which I don’t think too bad.

Still got the glow plugs error but seems to start fine, I’ll get it booked in for a full survive and get them to look at them then.