Perculiar Cold Weather Starting Problem

[AlanH]

Hi Guys,
Been having a most strange problem with my little Saxo.
Just in case it's relevant it's a 2001 1.4 VTS Petrol.
What makes it odd is that it only occurs when it's proper cold, near 0 C and colder. Any warmer than that and it starts first time and runs perfectly.
When it's cold, however, I get the same thing every time.
First, when turning the key the starter catches and I can feel the engine trying to get moving. This usually causes all the console lights to dim as the battery is pushing hard. Most of the time I have to reset the clock afterwards 'cos the drain is so much.
Anyhoo, after a couple of seconds of this I turn the key back, wait a couple of seconds and try again, and it works!, second time - every time! And once it's started I can drive off without any problems, even if I do a short drive of a hundred meters it will restart no problem.

Apart from this it's a little beaut and great fun to drive but for those few sub zero days of the year this little glitch shows it's face.

Any thoughts? I suspected the battery or starter motor but since it works so well the rest of the year I just don't know where to start looking.

Cheers,

Alan

[stevo67]

Get the battery & alternator tested.

[Ben_SaxoForte]

I'd probably start off with a new battery to be fair, when was it last changed?

[Mickswan]

Mine didn't like being started in the cold, new(er) battery fitted and it's been fine.

[AlanH]

Originally Posted by Ben_SaxoForte

I'd probably start off with a new battery to be fair, when was it last changed?

Not Sure Ben, We've had the car for about a year now and that's the battery that it came with so I've no idea of the history..
At least the weather is improving now so I've a bit of time to sort out a new battery before next winter..

Thanks Everyone...

[Saxocarper]

Battery for sure initial moving heavy cold oil in sub zero temps take a lot so often shows up a weak battery