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VW Caravelle 2.5TDi 2001...Occasional Non-Starter?

When I put the key into the Ignition and turn it, nothing happens. No click, no cranking, nothing! All the dash lights come on. This has happened twice, with at least a month between with no problems at all. One guy got it started after spraying WD40 onto battery terminals, and the next time a mechanic started it by pushing the vehicle a bit. He said it was an Ignition problem (not Battery, and no mention of Starter Motor). If this is so, what exactly is wrong? Does the ignition switch need replacing as a whole, or maybe only the electrical terminal on the end? Could it be the solinoid wire on the starter motor that's faulty? Any advice much appreciated, including what course of action to try first. Thanks.

Dave Oakham
November 2007

Vehicles, Vans Vw Key Turn

No answer, did you manage to fix it? I have the same problem at the moment.

Thanks,
Andy.

Andrew Pugsley
April 2008

Had a similar problem with a ford transit diesel , very intermittent until I called out the RAC. I don't normally have muh faith in these guys but their attention to detail was excellent. He checked out the complete ignition system, testing for voltage differences throughout and discovered that the problem was a bad earth and soldered the earth (body end from battery) and the problem never re-occurred, that was 3 years ago

John McGinley
March 2008

Currently have the problem on a 2003 TDI Jetta.

Current solution - With the ignition switch held in the starting position, I then rock back and forth in the driver's seat and it starts.

I can't duplicate it at the dealer, so it is not yet fixed.

John Pochodowicz
March 2008

We had a problem with the theft prevention system. (VW Caravelle 1996) Occasionally the car would not start. No clicks from relays etc. When we had to buy a new key it turned out that the theft prevention system did not work properly. After it was changed the car has always started. I hope that this can help you.

Sven
December 2007

I HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM SEVERAL TIMES IT WAS A COMBANITION OF BATTRY TERMINALS NOT ON TIGHT & IGNATION BARREL PROBLEM WHICH IS THE MOST LIKELY AS I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY MY MAIN DEALER SOUTHERN MOTOR GROUP

MUMTAZ RASOOL
December 2007

I suggest as a first step ensuring the starter-motor is servicable. My advice would be to remove the motor and take it to an auto-electrical company for testing.

motor man
November 2007