2006 Megane Start up Issues

[MikeyScots]

I have a 2006 Megane. It has an intermittent startup issue. When I press the start button, the engine turns and turns and turn before stuttering into life. It has never refused to start as yet and ticks over quite well once running. If I immediately turn off, then start again, it starts immediately. Have changed the spark plugs, coils, air filter seem fine.

Slight lack of power in lower gears, thinking it may be related.

Appreciate any suggestions.

Many thanks.

[oldbury863]

Hi, sounds like it might be TDC sensor trouble. Ive had this myself. Remove it and clean any swarf from the end. I never had any trouble whatsoever after I cleaned mine.

[MikeyScots]

Many thanks, will definitely give that a try. If you don't mind me asking, where exactly is it and is it easy to reach?

Cheers mate.

[AlexB]

Yep, related. It looks like the dephaser malfunctioning. It fails to lock in the retarded position, hence the problems with starting and low revs pulling. Disconnect the dephaser control valve solenoid and you'll get a warning light, better start, more pull at low revs and reduced performance at high revs. Try it!

If it is not a 1.6 or 2L petrol, then I am wrong...

[oldbury863]

If you want to check out the TDC sensor, there are plenty of google images available of the offending item. It works on magnetism. It generates pulses from the flywheel & sends them to the ecu when the engine is at TDC. Unfortunately, it attracts any ferrous debris that might come off the flywheel.... Then it doesn't work properly! No pulses, no spark.
Its just held in with 2 bolts & its situated on the end of the engine block (flywheel end!) just above the top of the gearbox. Doesn't cost anything to check, and a clean may prevent future probs anyway.
Good luck!