2002 Polo 9N sporadic starting problems

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Sat 7 Jul 2007 19:18
2002 Polo 9N sporadic starting problems - Lord Of The Rings
Hi, Perhaps someone can shed some light on this sporadic starting problem with a 2002 Volkswagen Polo 1.4 SE (petrol), BBY engine code, manual box. The car is driven by a pensioner with a corresponding short shopping trip/low annual mileage driving profile. In total, the car has only covered about 5,000 miles since new (1 owner).

Here?s the problem: Occasionally when you turn the ignition key, the instrument panel warning lights illuminate as normal but nothing else happens. The starter motor doesn?t turn and the solenoid doesn?t even ?click? and after several attempts the engine finally starts without further ado. The battery has been replaced recently, however I don?t think this is a battery related problem as once the engine starts, everything runs fine (no low charge/alternator warning lamp, nice bright dipped beams etc.) The problem first occurred about 2 years ago and, like I said, is sporadic.

The local Volkswagen dealer checked the fault memory when fitting a new battery recently, however this did not show up any malfunctions. I know that there is an issue with the ignition barrel switch on the previous Polo 6N, however no such fault on the 9N as far as I?m aware. If the problem doesn?t lie with the ignition switch, I suspect the starter motor or a bad earth somewhere. Could there be a bad segment on the starter motor commutator which is sticking when it stops on that particular segment (Russian roulette principle)?

The owner doesn?t mind forking out for a new/exchange starter motor or ignition barrel switch if that is indeed the cause of the problem ? however it could be something a lot simpler and cheaper to fix.

I?d be grateful for any advice you could offer.
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Sat 7 Jul 2007 22:05
2002 Polo 9N sporadic starting problems - George Porge
Check the security of the battery to engine earth point at the gearbox and also the battery to starter cable. If they are loose or dirty / corroded this will give you the symptoms you discribe. A clean with emery cloth and a smear of vaselene wont cost the earth.....pun intended

Disconnect the battery earth lead first and reconnect it absolutely last

;O)
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Sat 18 Aug 2007 21:06
2002 Polo 9N sporadic starting problems - Lord Of The Rings
Thanks Dox for the tip.

After a lot of messing around I finally tracked the problem down to the starter motor. This has been replaced and now everything is running fine. A simple solution to an evasive problem!

Best regards, Lord Of The Rings
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