TheSamba.com :: View topic - 1989 Cabriolet -- Won't Start from Ignition-but can Jump it?

Mon Jun 04, 2012 8:14 pm

I recently bought a '89 Cabriolet. I cannot get it to start from the ignition. It GETS SPARK and turns over and over--- but it will not run. However-- I can jump start it in first or second and pop the clutch and it will run immediately. Any ideas? Something is screwy... and I don't know where to begin!

When it is running after you jump start it, it stays running, idles fine and runs very well. But as soon as you shut it off... it wont start up, you have to continue to jump start it to run.... any help/thoughts appreciated! Thanks!

Tue Jun 05, 2012 7:59 pm

I'm having a similar problem with my rat rabbit right now and suspect the ignition switch has a bad spot in the starter position. I think what is happening is when the starter is engaged at the ignition switch, there is no power going to the coil. I have been getting lucky, and fast with with the cranking and letting go real fast with the key and it starts. :lol: You may try that or you can run a jumper wire from your battery to your + Positive coil and try to start it. If it works change your ignition switch. http://www.ebay.com/itm/VW-GOLF-Mk1-Mk2-Caddy-Elec...159wt_1139

Wed Jun 06, 2012 8:00 pm

Thanks. I was on the lines of thinking the ignition too.
I went ahead and bought a new ignition. Are those easy to install? I didn't know they had a clip in the back of the ignition to install it! Thanks a ton!

Thu Jun 07, 2012 2:47 am

VW Addict wrote: Are those easy to install?

http://www.vintagewatercooleds.com/tech/2007/replacing-the-ignition-switch/

Thu Jun 07, 2012 6:14 am

Great! So helpful! Thanks!!!

Thu Jun 14, 2012 7:56 am

Take a look @ the Electrical tumbler the sit right behind the mechanical ignition.. My car won't start but i could jump it. So I had to take down the whole dash and take apart my steering wheel just to replace the electrical tumbler. After that... It was smooth sailing. BTW.. my cabriolet is a 93.