Mk2 Clio smells and startup issues

[AlexD1]

Hey all,

My clio 1.2 2001 won't turn over sometimes, but if I hold the key it will start perfectly after a few seconds? What could be causing this?

Also I'm getting a burning smell from the back on the engine by the brake fluid image attached. This smell is strong and can be smelled in the cabin often during regular driving however it is touch and go..

The image shows the back left of my engine bay.

Cheers for any responses

 

[Hodgins]

hi @AlexD1
does the red immobiliser in the centre of the clocks flash quickly when it fails to start?

in regards to the smell, mine used to have 'a smell', it was hot burning oil smell. the rocker cover gasket was leaking oil onto the manifold so it would smell in the cabin, the seal is only a few quid and its not that bad ajob really

 

[AlexD1]

hi @AlexD1
does the red immobiliser in the centre of the clocks flash quickly when it fails to start?

in regards to the smell, mine used to have 'a smell', it was hot burning oil smell. the rocker cover gasket was leaking oil onto the manifold so it would smell in the cabin, the seal is only a few quid and its not that bad ajob really

Hmm okay thanks, it could be that there is oil over the block but most of it is inaccessible to clean! When I turn the key everything lights up as it should and no immobilizer light.

Thanks for the swift response!

 

[Hodgins]

If you look to the right of the brake fluid reservoir (standing at the front of the car)
You should be able to see oil on the solver metal heatshield of the manifold, thats how i noticed mine and the smell has stopped for ages

I suggested immobiliser because usually if the key is starting to go faulty, by pressing the key whilst turning the car on 'squeezes' the little chip on the circuit board in the key together so it works if that makes sense

 

[AlexD1]

Not sure exactly what you mean, this is a picture of the same engine bay, not my car but the same layout exactly. the circled areas are where there is alot of oil.
Area 1 - Behind the back and running along the side of the cables, not so much here
Area 2 - I don't have the silver cover anymore since it flew off and got tangled in my fan belt (its fine), there is a lot of oil under neath here and the entire cover.
Area 3 - Same as Area 2, lots of oil along this whole piece.

Perhaps I should powerwash the bay? I know a lot of people hate the idea although it's usually safe to do so.
NOT MY ENGINE BAY - IMAGE FROM GOOGLE
Thanks in advance