About Rocky Racoon Expertise Most questions that relate to interior, and exterior equipment removal, and re-installation. Also, mechanical repairs of the engine, and the axles, and the brakes.
Experience 35 years auto repair experience. 3 years specifically Volkswagen. 10 years ago, graduated from general technical college. Deans list graduate. One of several hundred, out of several thousand to compete, and win recognition within Volkswagen for knowledge, and excellence.
Expert: Rocky Racoon Date: 10/15/2007 Subject: Car no start....oh man
Question So I have been having clutch/electrical issues with my 97 vw golf gl manual tranny 2.0 L with a new transmission at 50k. I know the clutch has been slipping at high rpm's. Ta boot, I have had electrical problems. The electrical problems caused the stereo not to work and other quarky electrical issues (seat belt and air bag light coming on when not supposed to). I was told early on that my electrical issues could be caused by a faulty ignition switch. Anyways, so the car is running still at this point. Well... I go on vacation and come back to find that the car does not start. When I turned the key I smelled burning rubber, but all the panel lights come on (engine, oil, etc...). Thinking that the ignition switch is the root of all my problems I replace it...not fun. Car still does not start. Battery is good (got tested). My suspicion is a link between the clutch problem and starting. In order to start the car the clutch has to be fully engaged..Correct? Is there a switch that may be bad? I know the clutch is bad. Is it just a bad clutch. By the way this is the original clutch. She has 180000 miles on her and counting. Love her. Help keep her running.
Thanks,
Concerned Parent
Answer Hi Christopher;
The biggest tip off is the "burning rubber" thing. It's definitely the ignition switch...the electrical portion. You can buy just that. It's to be replaced by someone who knows how to remove the air bag, and steering wheel only! Don't try this at home, at least not without the experience, and the right tools. Take it to the dealer, and pay them to do it.
