Amarok Starting Problems: Key Switch vs Fuel System Fix

I actually dealt with a similar problem on my 2019 Volkswagen Transporter. As someone with some experience working on VW vehicles, let me share what happened. The symptoms were nearly identical, intermittent starting issues when turning the key in the ignition switch. The car electronics would work fine, but the engine would either not start or run poorly and die. After multiple failed attempts to diagnose it myself, I took it to a workshop. Turned out it was just a blown fuse related to the ignition system. The mechanic tested the ignition key and switch assembly but found them working properly. They traced it to a 20-amp fuse that had degraded over time. Total repair cost was 52€, mostly labor for diagnostic time. Since your issue sounds very similar and both vehicles share comparable ignition systems, it might be worth checking the fuses before assuming you need a more expensive ignition switch replacement. To help diagnose this more accurately, could you share: Whether you notice any warning lights on the dashboard, If there are any clicking sounds when turning the key, Whether this happens more often in wet weather, The current mileage on your Amarok

Thanks for the detailed response. After checking the fuses as suggested, the problem persisted. I took it to a workshop for diagnosis since my last service was only 2000km ago at 69702km. The mechanic found a faulty ignition coil that was causing the intermittent starting issues. The problem was more noticeable during cold starts. The complete repair including parts and labor came to 280€. They also did a full ignition system check to ensure no other components were affected. The car starts perfectly now with no rough running. For others who might face similar car ignition problems, the workshop mentioned that weak ignition coils often cause these symptoms and its worth checking them along with fuses when troubleshooting starting issues.

Having gone through this exact same issue with my Transporter, I completely understand the ignition coil problem. After my initial fuse replacement, I actually encountered the same issue again a few months later, the engine would struggle to start and run roughly. Just like in your case, it turned out to be a faulty ignition coil. My repair cost was slightly higher at 310€ since they had to replace two coils that showed signs of wear. The car electronics were fine, but the starting issue became more pronounced during cold mornings. Since the repair, the engine start has been consistently smooth. Your mechanic was spot on about weak ignition coils being a common culprit. For anyone reading this with similar symptoms, the typical signs of a failing ignition coil include: Inconsistent starting, Engine misfiring, Rough idle, Drop in power during acceleration Regular ignition system maintenance can help prevent these issues. My Transporter has been running perfectly for 15000km since the coil replacement.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the ignition coil issue. You are right that the cold start symptoms were a key indicator. After getting my Amarok back from the workshop, I have been monitoring the starting performance closely. The dashboard lights now function normally with no warning indicators. The engine starts immediately when turning the ignition key, regardless of temperature. At 71000km now, everything runs smoothly with no rough idle or misfiring issues. While the 280€ repair cost was not insignificant, catching the failing ignition coil early likely prevented more expensive damage. The mechanic mentioned these starting issues often get worse over time if left unchecked. They recommended having the ignition system checked during regular service intervals to spot potential problems early. For others with similar starting troubles, getting a proper diagnosis is worth it rather than continuing to struggle with unreliable starts. The symptoms can be similar for various issues, from simple fuses to ignition coils, so professional testing helps identify the exact cause.