My recently purchased 4.2 V8 has now intermittently started having starting problems.

Turns over every time but sometimes doesn't start. It can take multiple attempts. 3 maybe 4.

Should I be able to hear what sounds like the fuel pump like I can in my Dad's 2.5 V6 S-Type when turning the key in the ignition?

I know the battery is fairly new but it is not a Varta one like most people seem to say you need with the S-Type.

Any help would be appreciated.

 

I have the R and yes you should hear the pump pressurise the system. There is a tap accessible under the back seat there's a large black plug about 5 or 6 inch diameter on the near side the tap turns very easily I knocked mine about half off while changing a burst fuel pipe and it made mine a pig to start but it ran ok

Hope this helps

The make of battery doesn't matter it's the starting current that does. Mine is Bosch

On 12/11/2016 at 8:17 PM, Shelob said:

I have the R and yes you should hear the pump pressurise the system. There is a tap accessible under the back seat there's a large black plug about 5 or 6 inch diameter on the near side the tap turns very easily I knocked mine about half off while changing a burst fuel pipe and it made mine a pig to start but it ran ok

Hope this helps

I shall have a look at this then. It's a possibility.

 

On 12/11/2016 at 8:20 PM, Shelob said:

The make of battery doesn't matter it's the starting current that does. Mine is Bosch

Again I'll have to check this as this new battery was already fitted when I purchased the car.

This cranking issue has become more apparent since the car went to a independent Jaguar Service dealer who kindly ran the car until he used all £25 worth of fuel and left me with 12miles when I went to collect it. Perhaps some dirt has been sucked up? It only did it once or twice prior to this happening. It certainly has cracking issues if its the first time it has started that day.

Could also try turning the key so ignition lights come on wait a couple of secs while u hear it prime then off and on again a couple more times without trying to start it. If it starts ok then this points to blocked lines or weak pump also that valve half off as was my problem