After removing and repairing the key switch/steering lock mechanism, the engine cranks but does not start?

Tiny
WILLIAM2012
  • MEMBER
  • 2012 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT
  • 2.5L
  • 5 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 173,000 MILES
Removed and repaired key switch/steering lock mechanism. Key now turns and steering unlocks, reinstalled, all accessories work-wipers, blinkers, horn etc. Turn the key to accessory position and you get the typical dash lights per normal, turn the key to start/crank and nothing. Battery was disconnected during the repair.
Wednesday, August 3rd, 2022 AT 8:50 AM

9 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 42,935 POSTS
Does the security light flash when you try to crank it over? If so, you will need to reset the system which this guide can help. Also, there are instructions in the diagrams below to help you with your car. Does the key seem to work correctly, or does it not turn enough to get to the crank position? Can you please shoot a quick video with your phone so I can see what's going on, you can upload it with your response.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-reset-a-security-system

Anti-Theft Immobilizer Control Module, Removing and Installing

The Anti-Theft Immobilizer Control Module (J362) is integrated into the instrument cluster. If the Anti-Theft Immobilizer Control Module (J362) is faulty, the instrument cluster must be replaced.

Refer to = [Instrument Cluster, Removing and Installing] See: Instrument Cluster - Carrier Removal and Replacement > Instrument Cluster, Removing and Installing.

You can try a hard reboot which is done by removing the negative side of the battery, with the cable loose from the negative side of the battery, hold it to the positive terminal for 1 minute this will discharge the memory capacitors in the BCM and PCM allowing the system to reboot.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

Please run down these guides and report back
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Wednesday, August 3rd, 2022 AT 4:18 PM
Tiny
WILLIAM2012
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
Thank you for the reply.
I don’t think my car has the anti-theft immobilizer option, not seeing any indication light in dash cluster. Picture is the steering lock/ignition assembly I removed and repaired to get key to turn. Battery was disconnected (+ side) while doing so. It’s not a push button type ignition, key fob only locks/unlocks doors and trunk and alarm.
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Wednesday, August 3rd, 2022 AT 4:55 PM
Tiny
WILLIAM2012
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
Tried the battery suggestion and the VW portion of resetting immobilizer, and the end result is the same. Car still does what’s shown in the video.
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Thursday, August 4th, 2022 AT 4:26 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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So, the engine is not cranking over. I did not hear it crank over. Also, what does the warning light say in the information center the video is blurry and I can't read it.
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Friday, August 5th, 2022 AT 5:48 PM
Tiny
WILLIAM2012
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
No, the engine does not crank over when the key turned to crank position. When the key is turned to crank position, all dash lights go out. Information center in dash says, “welcome to your Passat”, then shows picture of car with door open. (I had door open when attempting to crank.)
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Friday, August 5th, 2022 AT 6:03 PM
Tiny
WILLIAM2012
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
I’ve also attempted to test for voltage at starter solenoid with key in crank position. This hasn’t been done as, I can’t figure out how to detach the wire connector at engine starter solenoid.
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Friday, August 5th, 2022 AT 6:41 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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You don't need to disconnect it you can just use a test light.

Check out this guide:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

Please run down this guide and report back.

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Saturday, August 6th, 2022 AT 7:39 PM
Tiny
WILLIAM2012
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
I took a shot and replaced the ignition switch, figured that’s where my problem was when I noticed the backside of the ignition switch would kind of bulge out when key turned to start position.
I reassembled everything, put the key in ignition and presto, it started.
Took the old ignition switch apart and found connectors all bent.
Thanks for the help.
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Sunday, August 7th, 2022 AT 3:01 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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Nice work, we are here to help, please use 2CarPros anytime.
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Monday, August 8th, 2022 AT 5:33 PM

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