Golf MK3 Starting Problem

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Sat 4 Dec 2004 22:05
Golf MK3 Starting Problem - namron1
I have a Golf MK3 1.6CL. First start when cold, it starts with the turn of the key, then starts chugging and dies out. You have to repeat this starting and it dies out each time for about 4 goes before it will stay running and then it chugs for while and after that it runs ok.
All plugs appear to be burning nicely.
Anyone know what the cause as it appears to be getting worse

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Sun 5 Dec 2004 07:54
Golf MK3 Starting Problem - Roger Jones
Do you do lots of short trips in it? If so, it might be clogging up. Before considering more costly remedies, try using VW's own injector cleaner (part number G 001 700 03). Even if that doesn't help, it will do some good anyway. If it does help, continue to use it and, in any case, give the car some regular long runs and push the revs a bit. I certainly worked for me on an Audi with slow starting and cool-running problems.
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Wed 22 Dec 2004 21:03
Golf MK3 Starting Problem - namron1
Roger,

Many thanks for your feedback, was not able to get the VW Additive as none of the Garages stocked it but purchased the equivalent from Halfords.

Have since put 2 full tanks of petrol with additive through but have not yet noticed a difference. How long did it take to work for you when you first used it.

I think it is the cause of the problem.

Best regards,
Norman
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Thu 23 Dec 2004 08:27
Golf MK3 Starting Problem - Roger Jones
The VAG additive is obtainable only from VAG main dealers and they rarely have it in stock but are always willing to order it. If your Halfords additive (an injector cleaner, presumably) hasn't yet worked, then you'll need to find another solution to the problem, I fear; the VAG stuff worked within 24 hours for me. (Two main dealers could have saved themselves and me a lot of grief had they simply been aware of the product, as they worked on the Audi's cool-running problems at every annual service over about five years without success. It was not the first time that I doubted the competence of main-dealer service shops.)
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