C30 1.6 Diesel - Refusal to Start
 

Hi,
My 1.6D C30 has become very hard to start after standing for a few hours. Apparently, fuel is draining back to the tank down the return line, which means that the pump is not primed, and hence sucks on air. Can anyone tell me what causes this, and what we should do to correct it? Once started it runs fine, and also starts fine when hot, or after a short period standing. First thing in the morning, or after a day sat in the office car park, it refuses to start, even though battery and starter motor are fine, and it has just had a new set of glow plugs and relay.
Thanks for your help.

PS Does anyone have a diagram of the fuel system?

My son has a 2007 and had the same issue.. it was cured with a new fuel filter and draining the tank. What was draines was very ugly...cannot tell if it was blocked filter or bad connection... You need to bleed/prime the system once filter changed..(.there is no pump in the tank)

There is a leak somewhere allowing the air in. First place to check is the fuel filter - replace it. Pulling a vacuum on the return line will draw the fuel through the system after replacement.

Thanks for that.
The garage has changed the fuel filter, and so far it does seem to be starting better. No actual leak identified however.

a pin hole is enough and usually you won't see diesel leaking from it. Filter is the likely culprit

Does the 1.6 PSA have clear (visible) fuel lines on it like the 2.0D PSA does? If so that could be monitored for bubbles/air.

You could also look at getting an onion ball fitted (search for guides for changing the fuel filter and you will see what i mean) to allow you to purge the air out of it, although this isnt fixing the issue but it would allow you to start a non starting car.