I have an N reg Peugeot 205 Automatic 1.6 which I have 2 main problems with. Any ideas?

Problem 1: It won't start most of the time. Meaning I have to go under the bonnet and connect the battery directly to a wire that runs off the starter motor. I think it may be a loose connection in the Ignition circuit somewhere, as it the problem seems independant of the engine temperature, but more dependant on how hot the inside of the car is.

Problem 2: Occasionally when pulling away from junctions, or speeding up after braking, the engine seems to loose power (although not to the point of stall). If i let off the power and then go back on I seems to get a juddering response then everything seems to be fine. This also seems to happen when I need a quick increase in speed (i.e. Overtaking). I think it may be an Air intake problem, but a friend thinks it might be due to the sensor in the engine that controls the automatic gearbox, or it might be an extension of problem 1 (See above).

Has anbody got any ideas on what it might be and how to fix it?

Answers:
From how you describe the problems, I will be honest with you. You don't sound like you are very mechanically inclined, or need to be trying to tackle this problem. You will cause yourself more problems than if you just pay someone to do the repairs for you. With that being said, I'll explain what the problem are. Problem #1 You have a bad selinoid (the thing you are bypassing when you jump power directly to the starter motor) that is causing it to not start. That is if you have cleaned all of the connections and made sure they are tight. Problem #2 Vacuum leak. Inspect all vacuum hoses on or around the engine and anywhere else that has a hose. Look for cracked, broken, or split where they plug on. Brake booster, or Egr valve bad. With the engine running; listen for any hissing sounds in the engine compartment, and/or underneath the dash. With the engine at idle speed, place your foot on the brake pedel and listen for a hissing noise that comes on when you apply the brakes (brake booster) and goes away when you remove your foot from the brake. Two things; if you don't encounter a "check engine" light on the dash, then the computer sees everything as normal. That leaves one alternative, a mechanical problem. A sticky EGR valve can mimic the symptoms you describe. One must use extreme caution when jumping electrical connections under the bonnett (hood) as you can do severe damage to the computer, by causing a surge in the power. Surge is NOT GOOD! As I stated earlier; in the long run you will save yourself time and money by letting a qualified mechanic resolve your problems. I have many years experience with vehicle repair, and have saw about every problem that is known to man. Vehicles are no longer the simple fix they were in the early days. I hope I have been some help to you, and you will take my advise. Good Luck!
First it's a Peugeot..! Second it's an automatic..! Trade it in for a lada, you'll have more luck.
Check your engine to body earth it sound like it could be loose.
When you break or accelerate the engine will lurch either forward or backwards if the earth is loose it could be the problem for both.
you have to take starter leads out clean it with sand paper and put some Vaseline and fasten it again that should cure it, if not part exchange.
Sounds like the starter solenoid is naf.
check your spark plugs as well.
Check the simple, non-expensive "stuff" first. Vacuum lines, depending on the age of the vehicle, if new, this is usually not a source of difficulty, but with age, cracks and leaks form which can cause loss of power,stalling, and a myriad of other problems.
As for the starting problem, again age related..faulty/failed ignition switch. I have had two vehicles which have had this problem. Of course each of them had over 60 to 70K miles on the odometer.
Is there a way to read the sensors? An on board computer which keeps track of engine events? Most cars with those systems have a CAN which can be read by a diagnostic tool.
Go to the library to see if they have a copy of a trouble shooting manual for the model of your auto.

Good luck
I don't have experience of your particular vehicle, but I'd have to go with the earth problem. A dodgy earth connection could cause both problems. Check the connections on the battery/alternator.
Listen to Music maker a thoughtful and well thought out answer could not better it myself Regards Mick

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