Car won't stay started when it rains

Tiny
GREPET2002
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 VOLKSWAGEN CABRIOLET
  • FWD
  • MANUAL
  • 96,450 MILES
Lately my car will not stay started after it has rained. My mechanic replaced the plugs/wires recently
And it did not solve the problem. He says the distributor cap looks fine. My steering also seems to be affected by the rain, making it difficult to turn the wheel. Any idea what could be causing these problems?
Friday, November 29th, 2013 AT 4:27 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
EXOVCDS
  • MECHANIC
  • 1,883 POSTS
The Ignition Components can be checked with a spray bottle filled with a mixture of water & ammonia.

With the engine at idle, spray the ignition components and then snap the throttle a bit... look for sparks / arcing.

Common issues of no starts / stalling in wet weather is the Ignition Coil.

Watch me check the Ignition System on this 2.0l Engine:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kkEawBEfM70

Thomas

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Friday, November 29th, 2013 AT 5:43 PM
Tiny
HMAC300
  • MECHANIC
  • 48,601 POSTS
Grease allways helps front ends if you can. And these cars are noted for having coil trouble so try a coil.
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Thursday, December 5th, 2013 AT 7:25 AM
Tiny
EXOVCDS
  • MECHANIC
  • 1,883 POSTS
Forgot to mention to tighten the power steering belt. Make sure that the splash guard is in place.

Have more suggestions, but that would require you to reply.

Thomas
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Thursday, December 5th, 2013 AT 3:55 PM

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