VW Spacefox Starting Issues: Stalling & Rough Running

Had almost identical symptoms with my 2009 VW Fox. The inconsistent starting and rough running pointed to a failing ignition coil. When turning the key, the engine would sometimes catch immediately, other times nothing would happen at all. The main signs that led to diagnosis: Unusual stalling while driving, No warning lights on dashboard, Intermittent starting issues, Engine running rough when it did start Initially suspected the ignition switch, but diagnostic testing revealed two faulty ignition coils. This is actually a common issue with these engines. The repair required replacing both coils and all spark plugs as a preventive measure. It was a serious issue that needed immediate attention since bad coils can damage the catalytic converter if left unfixed. The car has run perfectly since the repair, with no more starting problems or rough running. Worth checking the ignition coils before assuming its the switch. A mechanic can quickly test them with proper diagnostic equipment. Since your symptoms match so closely, strongly recommend having the coils tested. The stalling issue especially suggests coil failure rather than a switch problem.

Thanks for sharing your experience with the faulty ignition coils. My Spacefox has been running great since the repair, but I am curious how much you ended up paying for fixing yours? The starter motor and key turn issues completely disappeared after the fix, which was a relief. When they replaced my coils they also recommended new spark plugs, but I held off on those. Have you had any other ignition system problems since the repair was done?

The total repair cost for my Fox came to 52€, which covered replacing the faulty ignition switch. This was actually less expensive than I expected, considering the starting issues I was having. The key turn problems vanished completely after the fix. Unlike your situation, my mechanic found the ignition coils were working fine, it was purely an ignition switch malfunction causing the intermittent starting problems. I did take their advice and replaced the spark plugs at the same time since they were quite worn. Since getting the new ignition switch installed, the starter motor engages perfectly every time. No more issues with the engine failing to start or cutting out while driving. The engine starts smoothly on the first key turn now. Its been completely reliable for the past 6 months with no ignition system problems at all. If your spark plugs are original, you might want to consider replacing them soon as preventive maintenance. Bad plugs can eventually cause similar starting issues to resurface.

Thanks everyone for the advice! I wanted to share how my repair experience turned out. Took the car to a local shop and they diagnosed the problem right away, it was indeed failing ignition coils, just as suggested. The repair cost came to 280€ including parts and labor for replacing both coils. The mechanic showed me the damaged coils and explained how they were causing the inconsistent starting and rough running. What impressed me was how quickly they pinpointed the issue without any unnecessary extra work. The dashboard lights never showed any warnings, but their diagnostic equipment caught the problem immediately. The car runs perfectly now, no more struggles with the starter motor or ignition switch issues. The engine starts smoothly every time and runs great. Really glad I got it fixed before any serious damage occurred. Only wish I had checked the ignition coils sooner when the symptoms first appeared.