Dead Peugeot

[indi pearl]

My FIL has a 1997 Peugeot manual petrol 306.
It has been fine untill a month ago when it left him stranded in Tesco unable to start. All electrics came on as normal on start key except the starter made no noise (not even a solenoid "click"). Battery fine with a full charge.
I got the car started with a tow start and untill yesterday all seemed fine. Then it did it again.
I have done the usual Google and checked out the owners club and from the huge number of totaly conflicting threads covering failure to start concluded that French auto electrics are rubish.
I have so far done the following, all without effect.
Undone,cleaned and greased battery and both starter solenoid terminals.
Found the "secret" alarm/imobilisor unit under the rear seat and unplugged/replaced connector to re-set the unit.
Disconected the battery, turned ignition to start position and re-connected battery to re-set ECU.

The one thing to note is that when the key is turned to firing position the instrument and overhead lights go off.
I would be very gratefull for any pointers as to how to get this French tart strutting her stuff again reliably.

[gowmonster]

I'd try another battery in case it's not shifting enough cranking amps.

if that works, either the battery was dead or the alternator is gubbed.

you could in neutral, bridge the battery direct to the starter to rule that out.

[indi pearl]

Sorted problem this afternoon. It is a sticking bendix drive on the starter motor. The "Birmingham Screwdriver" fixes it every time but it looks like this weekend I have the fun task of getting the starter motor out and giving it a full overhaul.
He should have taken my advice at the time and bought a Japanese car (preferably Honda) !!!!!!!!