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evawalter1

VW Nivus Won't Start: Key Turn Ignition Switch Failure

Car won't start plus error code, suspecting ignition switch problems My 2023 VW Nivus (gas engine, 79711km) is giving me headaches. When I turn the key, nothing happens, engine refuses to start. Error code is stored but I have not read it yet. Previous mechanic visits left me skeptical about their diagnosis. I think the ignition switch or wiring harness might be the culprit since there seems to be no power getting through when turning the key. Has anyone experienced similar issues with their VW? Looking for recommendations on what to check first and how to approach the repair shop this time.

4 comment(s)

vincentklein1

Had a similar situation with a 2020 VW T-Cross. The symptoms matched exactly, no response when turning the key and complete power loss to the starting circuit. After thorough diagnosis, the issue was traced to a faulty relay switch connected to the starter solenoid. The problem occurred because corrosion had built up on the battery terminals, which eventually affected the entire starting circuit. The repair involved: Cleaning both battery terminals, Replacing the worn relay switch, Testing the starter solenoid connections, Verifying the ignition switch functionality The circuit break was significant enough to prevent proper current flow through the system. While not a catastrophic repair, leaving it unaddressed could have led to starter motor failure. Recommend getting the error code read first, then having the starting circuit tested completely. A proper diagnosis should include checking voltage at key points in the circuit, particularly at the ignition switch and starter solenoid connections. Based on these symptoms, the issue requires professional attention to prevent potential damage to other electrical components.

evawalter1 (Author)

Thanks for that detailed response about the relay switch and starter solenoid issues. The exact same problem happened with my Nivus a few months back, complete power loss when turning the key. Got it fixed and the car runs perfectly now. Was curious, how much did you end up paying for the repairs on your T-Cross? Also wondering if youve had any other electrical issues pop up since the power supply was restored? The wiring harness in my case needed some extra attention during the repair and Im interested if this is a common thing with these models.

vincentklein1

Appreciate the question. The repair cost came to 95€ for fixing a defective cable connection related to Terminal 15 ignition positive interruption. Much simpler fix than initially expected. Since getting the power supply restored and the connection repaired, the car has run flawlessly with no electrical issues. The starter solenoid and all related circuits are working perfectly. The key turns smoothly now and the engine starts immediately every time. Your mention of the wiring harness needing extra attention is interesting. While the circuit break in my case was localized to just that one connection, having the entire starting circuit checked was worth it for peace of mind. These modern VWs have complex electrical systems, so thorough diagnosis is crucial when the car won't start.

evawalter1 (Author)

Since fixing my Nivus, things have worked out much better than expected. The mechanic identified multiple issues beyond just the voltage drop in the starting circuit. The total repair came to 280€ which included: New battery terminals due to heavy corrosion, Replacement of a worn relay switch, Full circuit testing and voltage drop analysis, Minor wiring harness repairs The repair shop explained everything clearly this time and showed me the corroded parts they replaced. The ignition switch turns smoothly now and the car starts instantly every time. No electrical problems since the fix. Really glad I pushed for a complete diagnosis rather than just accepting quick fixes like my previous mechanic suggested. Lesson learned, when dealing with electrical issues, proper testing and component inspection makes all the difference.

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