Ignition Switch Fault?

[HorseOffaGypsy]

My Passat refused to start... the engine would turn nice and strong but refused to fire. Checked for a spark and found that I got a brief one as I released the ignition switch - but as the engine hadn't started it did not continue.

I've found that if I leave the ignition switch in the on position (but do not move it to the start position) and then put a live jumper to the starter motor, the engine turns and fires instantly.

I'm thinking that when the ignition switch is in the start postion, it is turning the starter motor but is not supplying the coil... when the switch is in the "on" postion, the coil gets power.

Is there any reason other than a dickie ignition switch? No fuse has blown - but could this be a relay problem?

The car has been starting like a dream, right on the button, for years. No signs of a problem, it just stopped. To me this seems strange for a switch... normally they show some signs of fault before they go....

Any ideas?

HoG

[Crasher]

Yes these ignition switches are prone to this problem, only fit a genuine VW dealer supplied switch as I find pattern replacements are rubbish.

[HorseOffaGypsy]

Thanks Crasher - there as ever!

Can you get key matched switches (to your original) or do you have to go with what you're supplied?

[Crasher]

The switch comes as the insert in the base of the barrel and does not affect the key. It is VAG part number 6N0 905 865 and this fits Passat type 35 and 3A from 88 to 97.

[HorseOffaGypsy]

Thanks Crasher

[tyreman1]

Hi,i think i`ve got problems with the switch on my passat,sometimes nothing happens when i turn the key and also at times when starting the car the clock and the trip reset with a buzzing noise,i removed the cowls and steering wheel but cant for the life of me see how to get the switch out...any help would be appreciated