Intermittent starting issue

[tezwilliamson@googlemail.]

Hi all, posting here in the hope that you guys can potentially help. Two weeks ago after a 140mile drive I stopped for a short break and the van wouldnt start (Kombi 2.0T6 Auto). RAC came, said battery was ok and no fault diagnostics. So recovery booked however 5 hours later when they arrived the mechanic driving said he would take a look, put his charger on battery for a about 2mins (although battery showing ok) and it started shortly after. We then tried it for 30mins on and off and no issue. On his suggestion I drove home 140mile without stopping (rather than have the van be put in a compound locally before recovery the next few days) and once I stopped on my drive it wouldn't start again. Next morning I rang RAC again who came out and this time when diagnostic machine was on it came up with "crank shaft sensor" and he got it going so off to the garage. Crank shaft sensor (cheap at 35 quid part) has been replaced along with a new battery (was showing low amps apparently). On return of the van its ran fine for 2 days on several journeys but now exactly the same issue. I was told that the crankshaft sensor fault only showed when it was failing and was no log in the diagnostics - as you can probably tell I ain't no mechanic So I am stuck on my drive and will be calling RAC tomorrow but in the meantime thought I'd post here to see if anyone has any ideas. Long shot I know and thanks in advance.

 

[DXX]

Are you sure they replaced the crankshaft position sensor? In theory it’s possible to do without removing the gearbox but very difficult.

 

[tezwilliamson@googlemail.]

Apparently so. I got the AA out yesterday and this is the report: fault code/s: System : Central electronics - 68K / Central electronics ZE Confirm concern from vehicle with being unable to start. When cranking the vehicle then produces a sound similar to no compression. When checking live data, the vehicle produces a crank and can signal and then fired up straight away. With no fault codes stored, crank and cam signals provided and fuel clearly evident, I have advised a possible EGR issue and left this disconnected to ensure it stays closed as the vehicle is now in a starting state. Driver is aware this may/ will produce an engine warning light but is in a testing phase to see if this allows the vehicle to start continuously. Been fine last night and starts this morning.......

 

[tezwilliamson@googlemail.]

Lates on this is its done 3 journeys today then after a 30minute run at 4pm got home and won't start. I'm stumped