1999 Volkswagen Jetta Won't start after long traffic jam

brhandler · Posted at Thu Jan 28, 2010 4:05 pm

Engine Mechanical problem
1999 Volkswagen Jetta 4 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic 100000 miles

Hi there,

Today I was driving into work when a freak snowstorm shut down I-84 in CT for about four hours. While in traffic, my Jetta seemed to run fine...no lights, smells or shakes. Finally, traffic began to move again and I drove ~25 miles to my final destination.

I parked in our office's heated garage (~50*F) during the day but when I returned in the evening for the commute home, my car wouldn't turn over.

Cranked fine and it sounded like it had intentions of turning over so I think the starter/solenoid is in fine shape. So I immediately thought fuel delivery... I mention the garage is heated so I highly doubt fuel-line freezeup but I did attempt to dicpher the silly fuse box icons to locate a fuel pump fuse. While I can't be sure I checked the proper fuse, I did pull all the ones related to the engine picture and they were fine. Checked the relays under the hood for any smell of arching, also seemed fine.

I'd rather have some of the boys at the office take a look at it instead of having it towed out of a parking garage...but not sure where to start.

Do you think it's a fuel delivery issue?

Perhaps a computer issue from idleing so long? Check engine light didn't turn on during the morning commute.

Did try turning it over in 'neutral' as well in-case it was the neutral ignition switch acting up which has happened in previous vehicles. Same result.

What do you think?

Thank you,

Brian

Jacobandnickolas · Posted at Thu Jan 28, 2010 9:31 pm

Brian:

It could be a fuel problem. Did you notice if the engine overheated while sitting in traffic? Also, what I need you to do is check the engine for both spark and fuel. Here are the how to's for doing both. Check them and let me know what you find.

http://www.2carpros.com/how_to/how_to_test_an_ignition_system.htm

http://www.2carpros.com/how_to/how_to_check_fuel_pressure.htm

Check that and let me know what you find. Also, a gauge will be needed for the fuel pressure test. Most parts stores will lend or rent them.

Let me know what you find and thanks for using 2carpros.com.

Joe

brhandler · Posted at Fri Jan 29, 2010 11:41 am

Hey guys, really great advice. Thank you.

Going to do a spark test tonight...unfortunately I don't have a boot puller on me today so it may have to wait till monday.

Any idea on the plug gap for this car.

Jacobandnickolas · Posted at Sat Jan 30, 2010 10:12 pm

Let me know what you find, and the spark plug gap is .028.

Joe