We purchased a 1990 5 sp WV Cabriolet and it ran wonderfully at first. Then, it wouldn't start unless we held the key turned in the start position (very difficult to drive a stick and hold the key!!). The AC stopped blowing cold at the same time...not sure if these are in any way related issues, or just plain bad luck!

Thanks!!

 

Welcome to the forum Cheryl.

Well if it will only run if you keep the key in the start position then you must have bad electrical connections in the system somewhere.

You can check the condition of every fuse in the fuseboxes. Then you really need a multimeter on the ignition circuit via the ignition switch to find why its loosing power.

 

Thanks, Keith! As it turns out, they had to replace the switch . The AC was unrelated and needed gas, but they converted it and it now blows cold!
All we need to do now is some cleaning and she'll be ready to go!

 

So a new ignition switch fixed your starting problem.

Well VW recommend you have the AC serviced every 2 years so if you don't know when it was last done then it needs doing.