1997 Volkswagen Jetta No crank issues

STOLI311

MEMBER
1997 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
4 CYL
FWD
MANUAL
100,000 MILES

Im working on 97 VW Jetta that came in for a no cranking problem. Found no voltage from ignition switch to starter. When applying power to the wire at the ignition switch terminal it starts- so no doubt I assume the ignition switch. After replacing the switch it still would not crank. I removed the switch from the column and used a screw driver to turn the ignition switch and it starts so what I know for sure is there is not enough turn or travel to twist the switch to apply the voltage to the starter, first thing that comes to mind is the lock cylinder but it seems to turn smoothly and seems to function correctly. Im trying to determine if It is a common problem with the lock cylinder to cause this even if it seems to work properly or is it because I used an after market switch and I should of went with oem on this componet? Any help would be great. Im a technician so feel free to get technical if you must.

1 Reply

KHLOW2008

MECHANIC
41,814 POSTS

Hi stoli311,

Thank you for the donation.

The original and replacement switch both had the same conditions so I would tend to go with the lock cylinder as the cause.

I had previously done a vehicle whereby all parts are OEM but have the same symptoms as described.

Check if the ignition swich is sitting snugly in its position. Holding it in position without securing and testing the starting. Check how much it has to go off position in order for it to operate. If it is minor, there could be wear on the internal parts of the key lock cylinder causing the ignition switch to turn less than required.