Hi All,
I have an odd behavior coming from my '03 XJR. I have only owned it for about 6 months. About every 10 times I start it the following happens:

1) Insert key into ignition
2) Turn key past Accessory to On
3) Pause there for 2 seconds to let the fuel pump build pressure
4) Turn the key into the Start position... nothing happens while I hold it for about 1 to 1.5 seconds... then the engine turns over as normal and starts right up.

1 second doesn't sound like a long time, but when you're used to every car you've ever had responding instantly to the key hitting Start, it feels like an eternity.

So I'd like to know if anyone here has any idea on what might be starting to fail. Before I get stranded somewhere, you know?

Thank you for your big brains and your time!
Garrison

 

My first thought is possible problem with the key or the switch wearing. But, I would first recommend that the battery be load tested. You occasionally may not have enough initial voltage to crank after the fuel pump has run.
You might try turning the key, waiting for all of the instrument panel checks to complete and then try continuing to the start position. The momentary delay may give the ignition a chance to send and receive the necessary info from the key transponder.
At the very least have a load check done on the battery. Jag's are not very happy when it comes to only being a few volts shy of whats expected.

 

There is an inline connector (circled on the pic below) in the wire to the starter motor solenoid. Somewhat corroded contacts in this connector can cause the problem you described. Unplug it and inspect/clean.

 

Brilliant, many thanks to both of you!
I haven't owned this car long enough to know the battery health, and I wasn't aware of that connector at all. I will investigate both - I appreciate it very much.

 

I kind of noticed this w/ mine the other day, hmm I may investigate the connector.

 

My VDP was doing the same thing and I thought it was the key, there's apparently a chip in the key and I've heard of them failing. However one day whilst in the boot (trunk), I decided to check the battery cell levels and found 2 very low cells, I topped them up with distilled water and charged the battery overnight and it hasn't done it since. To tell you the truth I thought it was a sealed battery, but on closer inspection it wasn't.

 

Hello, I'm wondering if you could reload that pic depicting the connector please as it doesn't seem to be coming up.

 

As my car doesn't get a lot of use these days, I always keep it on an battery moner to keep it up to full charge....also extends the life of the battery ;o)

 

You might like to check or replace the starter solenoid relay No.5 which is located in the ECM/Gearbox module box which is on the left hand side for RHD cars and is probably in opposite side for LHD cars.
It will pay to check your fuses and other relays for start and ignition in the under bonnet/hood fuse boxes on the left inner guard.
The following pics might help.

https://pbase.com/padme002/image/170182765

https://pbase.com/padme002/image/170182766

https://pbase.com/padme002/image/170182767

https://pbase.com/padme002/image/170182768

https://pbase.com/padme002/image/170182769

Do you have your Drivers Hanbooks wallet handy?

You will need a star point key/screwdriver to take off the lid of ECM box.

 

The pic shows clearly on the forum page, including in your reply quoting my post. Try another computer?

 

+1

It shows fine for me as well