Why is my Skoda Octavia TDI reluctant to start?

My 54-plate (2005) Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI PD Elegance has developed a tendency not to start occasionally. It was checked by the Skoda agent, who found no fault when scanning it, however it behaved itself for them and then the problem has recurred occasionally. Cranking the engine for a prolonged period eventually starts it. Any ideas?

Asked on 30 June 2010 by BossCat

Answered by Honest John
The reason for this with a diesel engine is usually an air leak into the fuel system somewhere.
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