I have a 2003 Jetta 5 speed. Lately when it is cold out in the morning the car won't start or turnover but, the lights and radio come on fine. After a couple of tries it starts right up. Talked to VW service they haven't heard of the problem. Any ideas would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance, Steve
yup - mine did the same thing. 2003 TDI manual I only had the problem for one day, and it started after a second attempt. Here's the weird thing - once I warmed it up via driving it around for 20 minutes and turned it off, it had the same problem. Only started on second attempt. Not sure what it may be.
The dealership never has a clue - or they never fess up problems. Customer is never right anymore. .... or is it just my bad experience.
oh well. I looked on teh TDI page as well to see if it was a common occurance - couldn't find anything.
good luck!
I need more power and a better 1st gear. eh still love my car,
Bhavesh
oh ya, any thoughts on upgrading tires to 16 or 17"ers. I need better grip on the road, but I'm afraid that the rims won't look as nice. I like the look of the 15" alloys. Anyone know if I can get BMW 17"ers. that would be nice.
Tell them its a 1999 model (out of warrenty????, or whenever it runs out) so then they fuss up and tell all :)
Gas or TDI engine? I have a 03 now which if you hold the key in the start position the starter doesn't crank for about 5 seconds! This only happens when it's in the 40's or colder. I replaced the ignition switch and should know later this AM when I get to work...
Just found out what the problem was yesterday! I have a 2003 GLI with the same issue. Push the clutch harder to the floor and it will start. It really has to be pushed quite hard to start in the cold. Don't know exactly why this is, but I'm just glad I figured it out before it left me stranded. Please let me know if this works for you.
TOE
I guess you don't own a newer VW because the only way the starter cranks is if the clutch pedal is pushed to the floor.
Yep, ignition switch was the problem!
Sounds like a fussy-when-cold clutch switch got placed into the
2003's, eh? Try the clutch thing... does it work?TOE
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