VW Golf TDI Starting Issues: Bad Ignition Switch Alert

Speaking from some experience, I had a very similar issue with my 2005 VW Jetta TDI. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I encountered, inconsistent starting when turning the ignition key and rough running conditions. After checking multiple components, the workshop found a blown fuse that was causing intermittent power supply to the ignition coil. The starter motor was receiving inconsistent power, leading to those frustrating no-start situations. The repair was surprisingly simple and cost 52€, including diagnostic time. The workshop completed the work in about an hour. They also inspected the surrounding electrical components to ensure there wasnt an underlying issue causing the fuse to blow. To provide more specific advice for your situation, could you share: Are any dashboard lights illuminating during these episodes? Does the engine crank when you turn the key, or is there no response at all? Have you noticed any other electrical issues like flickering lights? When was the last time you had a full electrical system check? These details would help determine if youre dealing with the same fuse issue or potentially something different.

I have the same car with nearly identical mileage at 21301km, last serviced in November 2023. After reading your symptoms, you should check the car electronics, particularly the wiring around the ignition coil. In my case, an intermittent connection in the ignition system caused similar starting issues. The problem worsened gradually and led to complete no-start situations when turning the ignition key. The repair involved replacing corroded wiring and a faulty ignition switch module. Total cost was 280€ including parts and labor. Since the fix, the car starts reliably every time. I recommend having a diagnostic scan done specifically focusing on the starter circuit and ignition coil signals. This should reveal any voltage drops or communication errors in the system.

Thanks for sharing the details about your repair experience. Its interesting that your ignition switch module was the culprit, this actually matches what my mechanic initially suspected with my Jetta before discovering the fuse issue. After replacing the fuse in my car, the problem actually returned about two weeks later. Further investigation revealed corroded wiring connectors near the ignition coil, similar to what you found. The mechanic ended up replacing both the wiring harness and the ignition switch assembly as a preventive measure. The total repair came to 295€, slightly more than yours, but it resolved all starting issues. The dashboard lights that previously flickered during starting are now consistently normal, and the starter motor engages smoothly every time. One thing I learned from this experience: when dealing with intermittent starting problems, its worth checking the entire ignition system circuit, not just individual components. Sometimes the obvious fix isnt the complete solution. Have you noticed any other electrical improvements since your repair? My power windows and central locking also seem to work more smoothly now.

Thanks for the helpful troubleshooting details. The ignition coil and wiring issues you both experienced sound very similar to my situation. Since posting my question, I checked the dashboard lights more carefully during starting attempts. I notice the check engine light flickers briefly when the starting problem occurs. Based on your experiences, I scheduled an appointment to have the car electronics thoroughly inspected, focusing on the ignition system and starter motor connections. The detailed diagnostic approach you both recommended makes a lot of sense, especially checking the entire circuit rather than just replacing individual parts. The cost estimates you provided (280-295€) help set realistic expectations for the repair. Given the similar problems and solutions you encountered, I feel more confident about getting this fixed properly rather than attempting temporary solutions. Good point about checking for other electrical improvements after the repair. I'll make sure to monitor all electrical systems once the work is complete. This has been really informative, having real examples of successful repairs for the same issue is exactly what I needed.