Thank you for your answer.

The battery is six years old (I replaced it in Nov '09) I had got Halfords to check to the battery a few weeks ago and its passed their automated tests on a handheld device, although I don't know how good their test is.

But yes with having the lights on first thing they quickly dim after a few failed turns ( after about 8 seconds), like I said before the battery voltage (using a volt meter )is 11.8 Volts proir to starting the car, then when running this clocks up to 14 volts.

A friend at work seems convinced its may be the glow plugs, but I don't know? The car is ten years old and they have not been replaced before.

Matt

Edited by mat_arnold on 01/01/2016 at 22:12

I am replacing the battery today, even if this doesn't fix the fault, after six years and 110k miles (since last battery change) it needs changing, I will keep this thread updated so it's known if this fixed the issue :)/

I would suggest buying the biggest battery that will physically fit on the carrier. Look at the Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) figure stated on the battery. The higher the figure the more of a punch it will have. I would think an 075 would fit, which is the same physical size as an 065 but has a greater CCA rating. An 096 is even bigger in terms of physical size and CCA, but you'd have to check to see if one can be fitted and properly secured on your car. It may be too big.

All fixed a new battery solved the problems, started first time after 20 hours.

My lesson from this is to change your battery at least every five years from new.

Thanks to those who commented above :)

Matt

Edited by mat_arnold on 03/01/2016 at 14:31