eh-4Q1.8

the 1.8 TQ with a stick shift. I'm going to make an appointment with the dealer but I'm curious if others are having the same problem.

The problem started about eight days ago and seems to be occurring about once out of every 10-15 starts and is happening with both sets of keys. Its like I'm trying to use the wrong key. Jiggling the steering wheel and ignition switch doesn't seem to help. The only thing that works is to repeatably: take the key out =>let the clutch all the way out => step on the clutch (all the way in) => put the key in => cross my fingers and try again. It can take up to 6-8 times of trying this before the ignition switch turns.

April

Hmmm. Have them check the clutch position switch as well as ignition.

eh-4Q1.8

Thanks. I'm not getting a "Press the Clutch before Starting" message but I'll ask anyways.

A4BlueJean

If the key won't turn its the steering wheel position. Hold it to the left.

a402Curt

I have the automatic and have experienced the exact same thing. Happened to me twice. Pulling the key out and back in again several dozen times finally gets it to work. (I tried moving the steering wheel and it did not budge at all)

eh-4Q1.8

That what I thought when it first happend. I tried both left and right.

eh-4Q1.8

It happened once or twice to me before also. Now its a more regular problem.

kidfrostnj

Does the power in the car die completely, or just you can't get it to start?

eh-4Q1.8

Can't get it started

Hlrius

I got my wife's keys and the car started immediately. I went back to my keys again and, no problem, the car started.

This is very weird. It must be something to do with the key recognition?? I presume then it occurs in Volkswagens as well??