VW Eos Stalling: Ignition Switch vs Electrical Fault

Having experienced almost identical symptoms with my 2010 VW Passat, this sounds like a classic ignition switch malfunction combined with a potential fuel delivery issue. The key turn resistance in the car ignition is often the first warning sign. In my case, the ignition key would sometimes stick and the starting issue became progressively worse. The engine would crank but fail to stay running, just like your situation. When I had this problem, it required replacing both the ignition switch assembly and cleaning the fuel injectors. It turned out to be a serious issue because the faulty ignition switch was causing irregular electrical signals to the fuel system, which explained the rough running and unusual shutoffs. Before taking it to a shop, you can do a basic test: Listen for the fuel pump when turning the key to the on position (before starting). You should hear a brief whirring sound. If this sound is inconsistent, it supports the ignition switch diagnosis. The car electronics might also show warning signs like flickering dashboard lights or intermittent electrical failures when turning the key, though you mentioned your dash lights are fine. This repair typically requires specialized diagnostic equipment to properly verify the ignition switch failure, so while you can identify the symptoms, professional confirmation is necessary.

Thank you for your detailed reply about the ignition switch and fuel system problems. My car started running normally after getting it fixed, though I occasionally notice a slight delay when turning the key. Just curious, do you remember roughly how much the repair cost in your case? Also, have you experienced any other starting issues since the switch was replaced? It would be helpful to know if I should anticipate any related problems down the road with my own car electronics.

Since getting the ignition switch replaced on my VW Passat, starting problems are completely resolved. The slight delay you mention when using the key turn sounds normal, as long as the engine start sequence works consistently. The total repair in my case involved a faulty fuse replacement at 52€ plus labor for the ignition switch work. The starter motor now engages smoothly every time without the frustrating intermittent failures I experienced before. Your car electronics should work reliably now that the ignition coil is receiving proper signals through the new switch. In the three years since my repair, I have not encountered any related starting issues or electrical problems. Just keep an eye on basic maintenance schedules and you should be good to go. A properly functioning ignition system is crucial for consistent starts, so getting it fixed was definitely worth the investment. The original symptoms you described matched my experience exactly, and it sounds like the repair has resolved them just as effectively.

Thanks for confirming those details about the repair costs. After visiting the mechanic last week, my ignition switch issue got fully resolved for 175€ including parts and labor. The starter motor now responds perfectly and the engine start is much smoother than before. The mechanic found that the ignition coil was also showing signs of wear, so they replaced that too while the car was in the shop. No more stalling or rough running since then. The key now turns smoothly in the car ignition without any sticking. The whole repair process took about 3 hours once they diagnosed the problem. While not cheap, having reliable starting again is definitely worth it. Really glad I got this fixed before it left me stranded somewhere.