What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks
x reg astra wont start - cub leader
My house mate x reg astra will not start we can hear the starter motor turning, and the battery is not dead but the engine does not turn over any suggestions please help
--
Temporarily not a student, where did the time go???
x reg astra wont start - Ruperts Trooper
All Mk4 Astras have a "pre-engaged starter" so if the motor is turning but the engine isn't, it means the pinion solenoid isn't working properly.

Although it can be removed, cleaned and checked, I'd replace it with a reconditioned unit. Go to an auto electrician or motor factor, they'll be much cheaper than a franchised dealer.
x reg astra wont start - RichardW
but on a pre-engaged starter, it can't turn unless it is in the engaged position. If the starter was turning without turning the engine it would just make a high pitched whine, in which case either the teeth are gone on the starter ring, or the pinion has come loose on the starter shaft. Think you're going to have to get it taken to someone....


--
RichardW

Is it illogical? It must be Citroen....
x reg astra wont start - Civic8
pre-engaged ie solenoid does two things,it switches starter on and engages pinion at the same time.unlikely pinion has come loose,but could be the switch works ok spinning the motor, but solenoid not pushing pinion onto ring gear
--
Steve