starting problem Golf Mk3

[Brian M]

Dear all, I went to start my Golf diesel 1.9 (P reg, 1996) and got nothing - not even a click. I charged the battery overnight - still nothing. I tried a different key in case it was the immobiliser- still no joy. I tried with the lights on - they seemed to dim. I listened for a clicking solenoid- couldn't hear a thing. Then suddenly, hey presto! it started. What's up? I'm at my wits end (almost!).

[kenney]

Get the battery tested, check the battery terminals,and the earthing strap.The fact that the lights dim,indicate,a poor connection,or a faulty starter.

[Crasher]

Possibly a faulty ignition switch, very common on the Golf 3.