For the first time in my ownership. my trusty LX never started on first twist of the key. Indeed, after a dozen full strength cranks, it still refused to start. I then removed the key from the ignition, use the key fob to lock, unlock car, but key back in, and it fired up first time.

This leads me to the conclusion that for some reason, the immobliser did not properly disengage. (?) If this is the case, what specifically would need replaced, or if you think I'm wrong (quite possible!), have you any other suggestions why the old girl let me down?

Not another Mk2 cluster fault this month surely?  

It's probably just a random blip though.  Can happen if you get in and turn the key too quickly.  If you've got Forscan you'll probably see a 'theft alert' code on there.

5 minutes ago, TomsFocus said:

Not another Mk2 cluster fault this month surely?  

It's probably just a random blip though.  Can happen if you get in and turn the key too quickly.  If you've got Forscan you'll probably see a 'theft alert' code on there.

Tom, I'm so hoping you're right and it was just a little hissy fit! I've read loads of threads on the darn Mk2 cluster, but they all involve errant error messages, random lights, pixelated displays etc. Is it possible, to use a current word, "asymptomatic" that it shows no outward signs of anything wrong, but just won't allow the car to start?

Just now, StephenFord said:

Tom, I'm so hoping you're right and it was just a little hissy fit! I've read loads of threads on the darn Mk2 cluster, but they all involve errant error messages, random lights, pixelated displays etc. Is it possible, to use a current word, "asymptomatic" that it shows no outward signs of anything wrong, but just won't allow the car to start?

Seeing as it's just one fault and has only happened once, I really would expect it to be a one-off. 

It is possible for just the immobiliser to be faulty though, depends which solder point(s) cracks as to how many faults occur.

Stupidest question of the year...

If the cluster is removed, is the car still driveable in any way or would she may as well be sitting on a pile of bricks?

Other than the fact you've no speedo, fuel gauge etc, the cluster is paired with the ECU as part of the PATS. I doubt there would be many car thieves that could get the engine running...

3 minutes ago, Luke4efc said:

Other than the fact you've no speedo, fuel gauge etc, the cluster is paired with the ECU as part of the PATS. I doubt there would be many car thieves that could get the engine running...

Yep, that's what I thought. I could use my SatNav for speedo, and just keep it topped up with fuel, but had a feeling that it may also serve as the 'brains' for the car so I'd be f*cked! 😂

On a positive note, I've been out twice this morning just to start her, and she fired up on first twist both times...

3 hours ago, StephenFord said:

On a positive note, I've been out twice this morning just to start her, and she fired up on first twist both times...

Lets hope the battery isn't drained when you actually need to use it!

As Luke says, the immobiliser won't disengage if you remove the clocks on these.  You could do it on some older cars though...the 306s would run without any clocks back in my Peugeot days!

After 8 months fault free,the 'non starting' happened again yesterday. The engine turned over perfectly, but just wouldn't fire. All dash lights lit as normal. After removing the key from ignition,then locking/unlocking, still wouldn't fire up till I  did it for the 3rd time, then she fired up as if nothing happened. Just another hiccough, or something more serious on the horizon?