V6 won't start and error code 76

[jeepster]

I had a low fuel warning, and parked on a slope. Two hours later, it would not start. I thought at
first fuel, so add 9 litres from jerry can, but didn't help. It has a heavy duty battery, and I
have cranked it quite a few times (only 20 seconds at a time). So then I checked all the fuses,
all okay. I swapped the relays around, that did not help. Checked all hoses and the only one
popped off was windscreen washer. It was recently serviced, including new spark plug leads.
So then I looked at the ECU error codes. I get 12 then 76 (difference in air fuel ratio between
left and right). From what I have read, this is not associated with failure to start. It is not even
firing on 3 cylinders now. There was no misfiring or lack of power before I parked it.

[Brett_jjj]

First up the error code 12.When displayed just on its own 3 times it shows everything is ok with the test and that no errors are logged.Or if displayed with other codes it seperates them and also shows the end of the test which is what you are seeing.Error code 76 is air fuel ratio (variation between left and right banks).This error can be caused by a crook fuel injector,a leaking exhaust manifold ahead of the oxygen sensor.It can also be caused by a vacuum leak around the engine or its vacuum lines ,it can also mean the oxygen sensor is on its way out and is giving false readings to the ECU about the air/fuel ratio, it could also be caused by faulty spark plugs, plug leads or one of the 3 coils,check them all out too..Theres probably more reasons,these are a few I thought of that could possibly cause the error.

[hako]

Can you clarify if your car actually starts? - heading indicates it doesn't but later you say it's not firing on 3 cylinders?

[jeepster]

Ok to clarify, it is not firing on any cyclinders, but turns over normal cranking speed.
BTW I have a terrible flu, so can't smell if any unburnt petrol is coming out the exhaust.

[hako]

Some things that I'd try:
I'd add 20 litres of fuel - if it's a steep slope you may need this much and you are going to have to refuel so you may as well cover this base. Disconnect the battery for 30 secs and reconnect. When the key is in the ignition keyhole and before you turn to start, press the unlock button on the keyhead. Is the red flashing light extinguishing when you try to start? Try thumping the bottom of the fuel tank with your open palm - this can restart a fuel pump that has stopped.

[jeepster]

The fuel pump was the culprit. When I drained the tank (through a funnel with gauze), there was about a teaspoon of dirt in the petrol,
and also found a self-tapping screw inside the tank!
I would add to the instructions in thread "VS wont start Fuel Pump?" one more step - pour a bottle of kerosene or metho in the tank and
rinse it out before putting the pump back in.