Hi there, I’m new to this forum. Wish I had found this a while back! Cool.
I’ve had some issues for a while with my polo.
When i turned the key to start the engine, there was always a slight delay before it started, and sometimes it wouldn’t at all. Most of the time it just needed a bit more pressure applied to the two o’clock position for it to start. I guess because its an old car the barrel or ignition switch was wearing out, you know what old keys and locks are like.
Now though, the motor is dead when i start it. I have full battery power, but nothing when the key is turned to start position. I have lights on dash, they don’t turn out when I try to start car, head lights don’t seem to dim either if turn on. Any ideas? I’m stuck on what to do and cycling everywhere at present, even to work, ha ha. Is there a way to test its the switch or barrel or can I rig up some type of start switch etc? I have no idea how to do any of those. Cheers. Mind you this is assuming its the barrel or ignition switch as Im only guessing.

 

first of all, welcome to the VWforum ;-)

It indeed sounds like your key/switch/barrel is broken or damaged due to normal usage... All i can do is give you some tips but maybe they help

* first of all, check your fuses (driver side [left], on the south-side of the dashboard. ) better check all of them and replace the broken one's, this can save you alot of time and effort.



this is how a good and a broken fuse look like.


car fuses come in many different shapes and sizes, all you have to do is find the broken one and replace it with the fuse that has the same amps on it. (replace a broken 15 amp fuse with a good 15 amp fuse, the amps are written on top of the fuses).

* make sure that the contacts on the starter-engine aren't corrodated (green/yellow/white dry crunchy stuff) => also found on batteries...

* ask a dealer how much it would cost to replace or repair the key/switch/barrel.

* if you can find the wires you need to get contact to get the starter-engine running, you could divert them into your dashboard and make a switch there. Maybe ask someone who's familiar with car-electronics.
=> my dad made this, and it's pretty cool 2.

check for any loose wires on your key/switch/barrel

 

I appreciate the answer of heavendies as the way he has shown diagrammatically the solution for this problem. I also think that the internal circuitry other tan the lightings has been corrupted since the model is old. Moreover if you further try out again there may be a case of fatal current or shock. Never attempt to look for the engine by yourself if you are not expert at it because even the scooter gives a tight shock sometimes. Visit to the dealer and convince him to give you a mechanic for this purpose or try out the search engine. You may get the answer there.

 

Does the car turn over? im having simular problem just fires but wont start strong spark and has fuel getting though