2008 Xsara Picasso 1.6 HDi, cranks but won't start

[BumbleBee24]

Hi guys, we've got a 2008 Picasso with a 1.6 HDi engine that will turn over fine but just won't start, it won't even "run" on easy start or brake cleaner (don't worry, it's a demonstration car, we'd never use brake cleaner on a daily driver ) we've cracked off the unions at the injectors and we're getting fuel there when cranked. It sounded like it was gonna go a few times when trying it with the brake cleaner, but it still didn't.

There's no error codes when plugged in, we've bypassed the glow plugs and checked the timing. It ran when it was parked up maybe 12 months ago and we've tried a few times since to get it going with no joy. Compression is OK as well.

Anyone have any ideas? Fuses to check etc? I'm guessing it's either electrical or an air issue since our other demonstration car with the same engine starts with brake cleaner and that doesn't even have a fuel rail on it!

Thanks in advance

[RichardW]

Welcome along

You need to get it on a diag computer - it needs to see engine rpm, crank / cam synch and fuel pressure before it will start. That it won't run on brake cleaner is suspicious. Are you sure the timing belt is intact... they like to shed teeth.

[PaulC5]

Is the key being recognised by the immobiliser ? Put it in the ignition switch and then open the driver's door - if recognised you ought to get a warning.