Ignition problem

blaaislaai

blaaislaai

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Hi guys,

For the past 2 days I have been having problems starting my car,

When the key is turned, nothing will happen. But the dashboard lights, and headlights and everything else would go on.

Once every 50 turns the car will start! ( i have a blister on my finger because of all the starting attempts).

Do you guys think it might be the ignition? The battery is fine.

its a 1997 jetta mk3.
 
Does it make a clicking sound when turning the key?

If not then it's most likely the solonoid that's worn out.
 
Not sure if this is going to mean anything but when the car is cold, it will start immediately especially in the mornings.

This morning it started immediately. Now I wanted to go on lunch, it wouldn't wanna start because its hot outside.

Really don't understand it
 
Might be the ignition switch that is faulty. You don't hear anything from the engine bay - no whine, click or any other sound while the key is in the "start" position?
 
Have you tried your spare key. It is possible that the key itself is not disabling your anti-theft system, thus not turning over? I know it sounds weird, but there are so many different cars and security features built into the key itself nowdays.
 
IRG said:
Have you tried your spare key. It is possible that the key itself is not disabling your anti-theft system, thus not turning over? I know it sounds weird, but there are so many different cars and security features built into the key itself nowdays.
Click to expand...

Yeah same thing happens with the spare key.
 
If u say it starts when its cold fine, and not when the car is warm, then it could be some sensor.
I know on a crappy Renault we had (thankfully we got rid of it), this used to happen. It was was the fly wheel sensor, that when the car is hot, loses contact and does not start again (exact same as u explained).
Maybe something similar.
 
Jetta/Golf Mk3's have a sensor which kicks in when the motor is cold.

It sounds to me as if this is the problem. That is the first thing that you should have checked.
 
I googled earlier today, it kept coming back with Solenoid as well.

Not sure what this thing is, or what it does. but the garage will fix/replace it
 
blaaislaai said:
I googled earlier today, it kept coming back with Solenoid as well.

Not sure what this thing is, or what it does. but the garage will fix/replace it
Click to expand...

If you take off the starter, there is a little thing attached to it. If you remove it it has a pin that goes into the starter (The solenoid is the thing that pushes your starter into action.) Pretty easy to replace and rather cheap also.

Just remember we can all give our advise on here but we have no idea what the car is doing. It's pretty much an educated guess only. Best to still get it confirmed by someone who knows engines and can have a look/listen to the problem.

I'm 98% sure that is the problem, but it could be something even more simple or maybe something major. Unless I'm the one looking at the problem I can only give advice :o
 
Last edited:
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