vw golf starting problems

[binwizard]

help please im having trouble starting a 1998 1.6 petrol golf some times it will start ok other times just a click from solonoid and other times nothing just dash lights changed the starter motor but still the same could it be ignition switch

 

[Belle427]

possibly but sounds like either a duff battery or poor/corroded connections at the battery to me

 

[Mursal]

AS above, than next step starter solenoid (roundy bit on the top of the starter). Put a test light on the small wire going to the solenoid to ensure you get power every time from the ignition switch

 

[Spark123]

It sounds like the solenoid is getting power as it is clicking. Check the connections to the battery and also the earth connections to the engine.

 

[Burnerman]

If its a new starter, then all should be well there.
Every time you try to start, look for 12v at the small solenoid terminal.
Ignition switch problems were in facr very common with VW's of this era.
John