C5 occasional non-start

[hirsty]

Over the last couple of days, I have had no starter turning over when I turn the ignition key. Turning off and trying again results in starting. Anybody got any suggestions as to cause. TIA.

hirsty

[myglaren]

Possibly worn/dirty/corroded contacts in the ignition switch.
Do you have a large bunch of keys together with the ignition key?
I have a hypothesis that the weight can put a strain on the switch and distort the contacts.

[hirsty]

Just the car key itself. I hate jangling keys!!. Would spraying electrical cleaner into the switch help.

hirsty

[myglaren]

I doubt it as the actual switch is most probably separate to the lock section.
as here:

[paulmac1978]

Possibly a lazy solenoid on the starter motor as unless it clicks in then the starter won’t turn. On the starter motor try and check if there’s a voltage on the smaller of the 2 cables when the key is turned, if there is but the starter doesn’t turn then its the solenoid on starter motor.

Turning the key does not directly turn the starter motor. The solenoid on the starter motor clicks in when you turn the key, when that happens then the full battery amps/voltage gets engaged which then turns the starter motor.

If it’s the ignition then you won’t have any power on the smaller of the 2 cables on the starter motor when you turn the key.

Had this on a C4, C5 and a few VW’s.