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98 passat won't start

Hi, I'm a newby and this is probably a fairly straightforward problem but, after reading the other articles, didn't see one that specifically matched.

In a nutshell, my passat won't start anymore. Symtoms: -turn key to first position -->no problem, check lights come on, radio is fine, headlights seem to have plenty of brightness

-turn key to starter position -->dash indicator lights flash rapidly and hear a faint fast clicking noise.

I actually did buy a VAG COM system (v 3.1.1) just coincidentally a few months back. Ran a scan and came up clean.

Any help is appreciated.

Reply to
acydgod
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I observed similar things on my 1998 Golf (similar systems). I would get that fast clicking and some of my dials would quiver. I removed the battery contacts and cleaned the contacts of corrosion - use a baking soda solution, rub down the metal contacts with a wire brush or scouring pad. With the battery contacts making a strong connection, this solved the problem.

This problem seems electrical in nature. I later found out that there are other problems (a worn ignition coil - being replaced now) but definitely check the battery contacts and fuses first.

Reply to
Jem Berkes

Three quick questions before a SWAG diagnosis:

  1. Do you get a click of any kind from within/underneath the car, or is it just the dashlights that come on?
  2. Have you checked the resting voltage of the battery? If so, what is it? If not, please do. Any cheap VOM set on 0-30 DCV should do it.
  3. Did this come on suddenly or was their warning?

The failure modes that will give this result could be anything from a neutral-safety-switch to a battery that is below threshold voltage. And lots in between.

In general, mileage and transmission type would help out as well.

Peter Wieck Wyncote, PA

Reply to
pfjw

Forgive my spelling in the previous post.... typing too fast.

Peter Wieck Wyncote, PA

Reply to
pfjw

I guess I will have to ask the silly questions. Is the gear selector in 'P' or 'N' or are you fully depressing the clutch pedal?

Sounds like the starter is not operating. Someone mentioned that it may be the battery connections, but it could also be the starter, the cables/connections, the ign. switch, or even the alarm system. How old is the battery and did you check it like Peter said? I vote that the battery is bad.

Also put in the Subject line which engine and which transmission that is in your Passat. ;-)

You are invited to join the Passats group...........

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Reply to
dave AKA vwdoc1

Bad battery (prob about 6..7years old?). Just not enough power. I'll bet if you measure it it will show a nice 12.5 volts. Charge it and try again.

SFC

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Reply to
SFC

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