hi all,

Just bought a 2004 octavia 1.9tdi with 77000 miles. An absolute dream to drive although it struggles to start first thing in the morning. Takes a couple of attempts to get going and a puff of smoke from the exhaust when she eventually starts. Then there is no problem throughout the day starting etc but the same thing happens the next morning. Any suggestions as to what is wrong?

glow plugs on their way out?

do iu get in and turn immediately, or get in, turn ignition on, put seat belt on, etc and then turn the key to start? I find mine is better as soon as I get in. I know that on my gfs felicia the glowplus run from when the door is opened - it triggers the timer, rather the ignition being turned.

I've got the same thing and am thinking that it's either glowplugs, or maybe it's about time for the fuel companies to switch back to Winter diesel?

given all the problems with my heap, it always starts fine when cold (not so clever when warm sometimes though!)....

i was told the glow plugs only kick in below 0 degrees...something to do with a direct injection?? surely if it was the glow plugs it would struggle to start during the day too?? i have tried starting it straight away when i get in and after all the lights on the dash have gone out but the same thing happens.

maybe a lack of fuel - maybe a slight leak in a fuel hose allowing some air to get in, plus it takes a bit of cranking to get the fuel back to where it should be?

Engines take quite a few hours to cool down - or are you saying drive to work, leave car at 8.30am, and then get in car at 6.30pm to drive home and it starts fine?

hard to get started in morning then its left in work from 8.30am til 4.30pm. starts ok at 4.30. Just when its been left overnight or for long periods it struggles. Once you get it started the first time there is no problem starting it after that. Always keep plenty of fuel in it too. Maybe i should try singing to the car in the mornings in case it is a bit temperamental! right now i'd try anything!