Hi,

Hoping someone here can give me some pointers. I have a Skoda Fabia VRS 2004 with the PD130 engine. Always used to start on the button. Recently this was laid up for six months while I sorted out the suspension and other bodywork issues. I also installed a new battery as the old one wasn't holding charge.

Anyway, post lay-up it started fine as I moved it off the patio and on to the drive. Starting subsequently though has thrown up the following issue.

When starting from cold, it needs to turn over a lot longer than usual and also needs a prod on the accelerator to start. Often it will crank for too long and then throw a flashing glowplug and engine management light at me. VCDS shows this to be Engine Speed Sensor - Reading Implausible. (G28). Looking this up shows that this is often thrown by cranking for too long without starting so could well be a red herring.
Once started it idles and performs as normal. Starting from warm is much better, although it still isn't quite normal, hesitating slightly before starting.

Just looking for some pointers for things to check/replace prior to handing over to a diesel specialist. I have considered doing fuel filter and glowplugs perhaps, just not use if issues with them would present in this way.

All feedback greatly appreciated.

First thing I would do if you haven't already is give it an oil service, check the air filter too. Always a good idea to do after the car has been stood for a period of time. 
 

Regarding the starting issue I would do/check things like...

 

Check the glow plug wiring and all engine earth points. Be a good idea to check the connections and give everything a clean up while your there. 

 

Add some FORTE Diesel Treatment to 1/2-3/4 tank of fresh diesel and take it for an old Italian tune up, this will help clean out the fuel system and any blockages on the injectors. 

 

I wouldn't rule out the speed sensor failing, you could try cleaning the connector up on that too but sometimes when a car is stood for a while you to get sensors randomly failing upon re-running them. 

Evening,

 

Do you get a big cloud of smoke when it starts for clod?

 

I would check the glow plugs.  Take off the wiring and check each plug for continuity with a multimeter.

 

SN

Camshaft sensor has gotta dirty and this causes long cranking time when starting remove cambelt cover spray brake cleaner on top of sensor it's hidden behind the pulley if possible get a piece of pipe cleaner in it as well then see if this solves the issues