VW Caddy's Weak Starter Causes Hard Starting Issues

Had similar issues with my 2015 VW Golf TSI. The symptoms matched exactly, slow cranking and multiple start attempts despite a relatively new battery. The root cause turned out to be a short circuit in the starter motor wiring harness. The insulation had worn down, causing intermittent connection issues. This was draining the battery even when the car was parked. The repair process involved: Testing the circuit breaker and fuse box connections, Checking voltage drop across the starter motor, Inspecting the ignition switch for worn contacts, Replacing damaged wiring and connectors It was a serious electrical issue that could have left me stranded if not addressed. The worn wiring was causing resistance in the circuit, making the starter motor draw excessive current. Quick test you can do: Check if your battery voltage drops below 12V when attempting to start. If yes, have a professional check the entire starting circuit, particularly the connection between the starter motor and the ignition switch. A proper diagnosis with electrical testing equipment is essential since these symptoms can indicate various underlying electrical problems beyond just the battery.

Thanks for sharing your experience. I had an electrical fault in my 2017 Caddy that showed similar symptoms. After diagnostics, it turned out the ignition switch was failing, causing poor contact and irregular power supply to the starter. The repair included replacing the ignition switch assembly and checking the charging system. This solved the starting issues completely and the van runs perfectly now. Did you get yours fixed already? Would be interesting to know the final cost of your repair and if any other issues came up since then? These electrical problems can sometimes be related to other components in the starting circuit.

Thanks for asking about the outcome. Got it sorted last week. The mechanic found the Terminal 30 continuous plus was indeed interrupted, causing the power supply issues. After fixing that and addressing the heavily discharged battery condition, everything works perfectly now. The total repair came to 290€, which included a full electrical system diagnostic and fixing the wiring harness connections. Since the repair, the starter motor engages immediately and the voltage drop issues are completely resolved. The circuit breaker and all related components were also tested during the diagnosis to ensure no cascading electrical problems would surface later. The mechanic explained that catching these electrical issues early prevented potential damage to the ignition switch and other connected systems. No other issues have appeared since the fix, starts first time, every time. Would definitely recommend getting any similar symptoms checked professionally, as these electrical problems can compound if left unaddressed.

I finally took my Caddy to a new mechanic last week after reading these responses. The diagnostic revealed a failing voltage regulator and worn starter solenoid contacts causing inconsistent power supply to the starting circuit. The repair included: New voltage regulator, Starter solenoid replacement, Full electrical system check, Cleaning all ground connections Total cost was 385€ but the cranking is now strong and immediate. The electrical fault that was causing the voltage drop has been completely resolved. Much better experience with this mechanic who took time to explain the circuit breaker and fuse box testing process. Really glad I asked here first, helped me understand the likely causes and what to expect during diagnosis. The van starts perfectly now and I can finally rely on it again for daily use.