calv1n 0 Posted September 10, 2008 Hi all, I was wondering if anyone could help me with diagnosing an ignition problem? I know there are a few links about this already but think my symptoms may be a little different. I've got a '93 VR6 and it was doing fine for a few months (got it in October) and then began randomly not starting about 15% of the time. When I turn the key in the ignition it'll make all the right noises (i.e. healthy battery etc) but won't spark the engine, regardless of how long I keep the key turned for. Also, whilst turning the key there is a light ticking sound from inside the dashboard - when I hear this I know its not going to start. Sometimes, on the fourth or fifth attempt, the ticking will not be there and the engine will fire. Other times it will not start at all and I will have to cycle to work and sometimes fall off my bike, which I don't like much. NB I think it always starts when the engine has been running in the previous few hours, so it seems to be a cold start problem. Official VW garage had it for about 2 weeks, told me it didn't exhibit the problem, so they couldn't diagnose and then charged me £150 for a new battery it didn't need. They also seemed to think it wasn't an immobiliser prob. I've just bought a new ignition switch, wondering if I'll be able to fit it myself (any ideas?) but suspect it won't solve the problem since wiggling the key around in the ignition never seems to do anything. I've probably been banging on for too long for anyone to still be reading so I might stop there....one last thing: I've had LPG installed, which I've been assured by the installers is not relevant (as they would say) - this may be the last straw that makes you think 'well you asked for it then'... Any help'd be great - also any recommendations of good corrado-friendly garages in the hertfordshire / north london area?...cheers Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Critical_Mass 10 Posted September 10, 2008 Seen as you have the ignition switch get it fitted, it could well be the problem . You can do it yourself, though the little screw holding it in is a bugger to get to. Some bend a small screw driver (like a watch makers screw driver or like) i on the other hand, smashed the old one out gently and cable tied the new one in place - others have done the same with the cable tie trick. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Reggit 0 Posted September 11, 2008 Mine has exact same symptoms, but does it more often in damp conditions. I found that it appears to be a relay problem as if I pull relay 99 then replace it the car will start fine. Relay 99 is nothing to do with the engine, just the easiest to reach from the drivers seat. The consensus of opinion when I asked is that the fault is most likely the X-relief relay. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
calv1n 0 Posted September 13, 2008 Thanks critical mass and reggit. Whilst attempting to replace the ignition switch I noticed that pulling relay 109 stopped the ticking sound that accompanied the non-starting. I gave it a bit of a clean, replaced it and it started straight away - very pleased! I'm now sure that it was this that caused the problems - part number; 357906381A (new part number; 1J0906381A). I didn't replace the ignition switch in the end - couldn't see where it went?! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Critical_Mass 10 Posted September 15, 2008 The the ticking will the relay switch. As for the ignition switch position, for future reference ;) If you take the steering wheel cowling off, you should see a black block connector with loads of wires going into it - that is connected to the back of the ig switch. If you disconnect that by pulling it towards the dash (obviously squeeze the clips to release). If you then stick your head under you will see some prongs that the connector plugged into. Thats the ignition switch, to the right as you look at it shold be a small screw, thats teh one you need to get out. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
calv1n 0 Posted September 24, 2009 You know what? - it wasn't the fuel pump relay after all...I carried on having serious intermittent starting problems for another year after this post. I had practically given up and thought I'd take it in to one last garage before giving up on it for good. Brilliantly, there was a guy there who managed to track the problem to the crank shaft sensor and it's started fine since. I am very very pleased!!! Hooray for Davide! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Critical_Mass 10 Posted September 24, 2009 You know what? - it wasn't the fuel pump relay after all...I carried on having serious intermittent starting problems for another year after this post. I had practically given up and thought I'd take it in to one last garage before giving up on it for good. Brilliantly, there was a guy there who managed to track the problem to the crank shaft sensor and it's started fine since. I am very very pleased!!! Hooray for Davide! Great news! :D My last post was almost a year ago to the day :lol: Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
