Inconsistent ignition problem

[Robot75]

Hi,
for a couple of years my T6 has sometimes failed to start on the first attempt - I press the clutch, turn the key and nothing happens at all (ie no noise/cranking at all, although the lights on the dash all show up OK). If i keep the key turned long enough sometimes it may suddenly start OK after maybe 5-10 seconds, although sometimes i need to repress the clutch and re-turn the key after which it starts OK. Its been like this for a couple of years and although a little annoying its not been a huge issue and my garage also seemed unsure what it could be and unable to replicate it.

However in the last week it has suddenly got worse, and i could be sitting there for a few minutes retrying until it suddenly starts.
I dont think its a battery issue as it starts OK (when it eventually does start). I was wondering if maybe it is immobiliser related (i have a metatrak fitted) but not convinced this is the case. Any ideas?

Thanks in advance

Rob

 

[64 SPLIT]

It would be best to try replicate the issue without the Metatrak connected to rule it out but I expect this might not be that easy (not overly familiar with how they're fitted).
Ideally a diagnostic scan would be a good first port of call so that you can monitor whether simple things like whether the clutch switch is operating correctly when you depress the pedal. I'd also check the condition of the earth strap etc. from battery and for any loose/corroded connections.

 

[kipperman]

How is the immobiliser deactivated ( sorry, no experience with metatrak)? If a fob could it have something to do with the fob battery going flat?

 

[Sasquatch]

Am I rightnjn thinking rhe battery on the fob only powers the remove buttons? The actualy immobiliser is a near field system and the immobiliser portion is activated by the tiny current generated from the antenna built into/around the ignition barrel...? Never had the need to delve closely into these on my van.

 

[kipperman]

We have a Scorpion S5 tracker - and according to scorpion

"2. Automatic Driver Recognition (ADR) Tags

The system is provided with an Automatic Driver Recognition (ADR) tag as standard. However, you can purchase additional tags by calling our Sales Team on 01257 249 928 (option 3). New tags will pair to the unit automatically once they have been used for the first time.

These tags are powered by a user replaceable coin cell CR2450 battery, Scorpion part number BTY020. The expected battery life is in excess of 1 year. Details on how to replace the battery are included in the System User Guide."

Which fits, given the tag only needs to be in the vicinity of the driver ( so in pocket or whatever). I'd have thought near field stuff would have to be closer.

 

[BikerPa]

@Robot75 I have a MetaTrak on my T6.1 which is linked to the factory alarm/immobiliser & sometimes it fails to crank for 20-30 seconds randomly.

I think is is something to do with the MetaTrak getting a GPS fix before allowing immobiliser release on mine.

I just hold the key right over till it cranks even though it sometimes seems to take an age it does always start