Bulb warning light + Doesn't start first time

[Nick91]

Hi All,

My 75 has, this evening, developed an interesting issue. The bulb warning light on the dashboard has turned itself on, which is absolutely correct as it looks like a tail light is out. At the same time however, the car is not starting first time like it always has for me. The ignition starts and then immediately cuts out, before another twist of the key starts it the second time.

Are these issues linked? Is it a feature of the car to remind me to change the bulb? I've searched online and through the manual and couldn't see anything.

It's a mk2 Tourer.

Thanks,
Nick.

[suzublu]

A feature of our cars is that when a rear light goes out, the brake light illuminates at 50% for safety, so when checking, double check as to your running issues Might help the more learned of the forum if you mention the engine type

[Nick91]

Originally Posted by suzublu

A feature of our cars is that when a rear light goes out, the brake light illuminates at 50% for safety, so when checking, double check as to your running issues Might help the more learned of the forum if you mention the engine type

Yep, that's happened on the left. It confused me earlier as it looked like a bulb had blown either side (ie. the left brake light was on but not the tail light and the right tail was on but not the brake). I did laugh when I realised.

It's a 2.5 v6. The car starts religiously first time every time until this evening when both of these events seemed to happen at the exact same time.

Thanks.

[COLVERT]

Nick. Don't forget to let us know if it all works out OK.---

[SD1too]

Originally Posted by Nick91

Are these issues linked? Is it a feature of the car to remind me to change the bulb?

No and no!

As for not starting first time, if your car hasn't been used very much during lockdown I would get out your battery charger and leave it connected overnight.

Simon