VW Atlas Starting Issues Point to Faulty Ignition Switch

I had a very similar issue with my 2020 VW Tiguan. Having some experience with basic car maintenance, I first suspected the ignition coil or starter motor, but it turned out to be much simpler. After taking it to the workshop, they found a blown fuse connected to the ignition system. The intermittent starting problems were happening because the fuse was partially damaged, causing inconsistent electrical flow to the ignition switch. The total repair cost was 52€, mainly covering diagnostic time and the new fuse replacement. The unusual starting issues and rough running you describe sound very familiar. However, to provide more specific guidance, could you share: Any warning lights on the dashboard? Does the engine crank when you turn the key? Have you noticed any electrical issues with other systems? When was your last battery check? While a faulty fuse was the culprit in my case, similar symptoms can also point to other ignition system components. Its best to get it properly diagnosed since driving with an unreliable starting system can leave you stranded.

Last service was at 130000km and they did not report any issues with the ignition system. Yes, there is a check engine light on the dashboard that started flashing recently. The engine does crank when I turn the key, but it takes multiple attempts sometimes. No other electrical issues noticed, all power windows, radio, and lights work normally. Battery was checked during the last service 2 months ago and tested fine. After seeing your similar experience, I will have the fuses checked first. Though the flashing check engine light makes me wonder if its related to the ignition coils. The engine definitely runs rough when it does start, which seems to match ignition coil failure symptoms from what I have read. The starting issue is becoming more frequent, especially during cold starts in the morning.

Thanks for the additional details. Unlike my case, your symptoms point more towards ignition coils rather than a simple fuse issue, especially with that flashing check engine light. When an engine light flashes, it typically indicates misfires, which matches your rough running symptoms. In my Tiguan, when the coils eventually did fail months after my fuse issue, the symptoms were nearly identical to what you describe, multiple cranks needed, rough running, and unusual stalling. The check engine light was the key difference between our initial situations. The repair cost for replacing all ignition coils was 380€, including parts and labor. Its worth replacing all coils at once since they tend to fail around the same time. The starter motor and key turn problems completely resolved after the coil replacement. If you want to verify before heading to the shop, try this: when the engine is running rough, listen for a distinctive stuttering sound. In my case, this confirmed the ignition coil diagnosis before the workshop visit. Since your car still cranks, we can likely rule out major starting issues with the starter motor itself. Would suggest getting those ignition coils checked asap, as continuing to drive with misfires can damage your catalytic converter.

Your engine problem sounds more serious than my initial fuse issue. That flashing check engine light plus the rough running definitely makes me think its the ignition coils. Since the engine cranks with the ignition key but runs poorly, and especially since it started happening during cold starts, I believe the workshop will find failing coils. I will get it checked tomorrow, dont want to risk damaging the catalytic converter. Its reassuring to hear your repair cost was 380€ for all coils replaced. I was worried it might be something much more expensive when the starting issue first began. The dashboard light flashing during startup was the key difference I noticed between our cases. At least the battery and other car electronics are working fine, so that narrows down the problem. Thanks for sharing your experience, definitely helped point me in the right direction for diagnosis.