I ran 2.2 Estima/Lucidas between 1997 and 2006 after three years with a UK spec Previa. Great vehicles with none of the drawbacks of the Previa, ie poor/no aircon and astronomical fuel consumption. I gave my last one away when I got a new Chrysler Grand Voyager (for the stow 'n go). I wish I'd kept the Estima......

I've got a suggestion for your starting problem: Don't wait for the click. Try turning the key straight away, don't touch the throttle. On many diesels and in most UK situations the plugs don't need to "reach temperature". This used to work for me.

Alternatively, perhaps it does need the heater plugs, and one or more has burnt out and needs replacing. However if your problem also occurs with a warm engine, its probably not this.

Thirdly, Anti-stall valve. If this is stuck or the solenoid has burnt out it could prevent starting, but wouldn't affect running. This is probably the Stop Solenoid that other forums refer to.

Good luck!

Just recently this click has been sporadic and the engine refuses to start.

This suggests the glow plug relay which switches on teh current to the glowplugs is faulty. Happens with age.

You can test it by running a multimeter from teh plug to earth and swithcing on the key to ignition. (Don't try to start the engine) Should see a current. No current = faulty relay..