Volkswagen Golf IV 1.6 16V SE 2002 - Intermittent starting problems. "Fix" or sell?

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Sun 9 May 2010 13:48
Volkswagen Golf IV 1.6 16V SE 2002 - Intermittent starting problems. "Fix" or sell? - emorcas

I have a 2002 golf 1.6 16V SE which for the last year has had an intermittent starting problem. Working with my local independent garage and following the codes so far they have replaced (at different times) the lambda probes; the temp sensor and the crank shaft sensor. However the problem remains and the codes coming up (injector cylinders 1-4; purge valve; o2 sensor) apparently seem unlikely considering what has already been replaced.

I am now in a dilemma about how to progress with this having spent quite a lot of money and time - not to mention being stuck in various locations with small kids, on the problem. I have contacted my local vw garage who when pressed said that they could look at it (this would cost around £100+vat) and if at worst it was the ecu it would cost around £1000 to fix. To be honest I would be happy to pay this if I was convinced it would resolve it once and for all but there seems no guarantee of this and they do not seem too interested in helping.

Would you recommend I replace the car totally considering its age/current value even if it was reliable or press on with repairs? I don't want to sell the car privately but if undertaking a part exchange would its unreliability reduce any offer enormously? I wouldn't feel comfortable pretending all was well with it.

I would be hugely grateful for any advice, my incredibly helpful independent garage are totally stumped now!

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Sun 9 May 2010 22:21
Volkswagen Golf IV 1.6 16V SE 2002 - Intermittent starting problems. "Fix" or sell? - elekie&a/c doctor

The code for injectors 1-4 may be a clue to your problem.Get your local indy garage to replace the fuel injection system relay.It is located on a plastic frame ,above the pedals.Intermittant operation of this relay can cause a non-start condition.hth

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Mon 10 May 2010 21:33
Volkswagen Golf IV 1.6 16V SE 2002 - Intermittent starting problems. "Fix" or sell? - emorcas

Many thanks for this - do have any idea how costly do you think this part/job would be? Comparable to the sensors already replaced or more like the expensive lamda probes?

Once agian thanks for your time

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Mon 10 May 2010 23:21
Volkswagen Golf IV 1.6 16V SE 2002 - Intermittent starting problems. "Fix" or sell? - elekie&a/c doctor

Part cost is around £30 and less than 30 mins to fit.hth

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Wed 12 May 2010 15:27
Volkswagen Golf IV 1.6 16V SE 2002 - Intermittent starting problems. "Fix" or sell? - emorcas

thanks for that I shall have a word with them, it's just hard to know when to give up totally or keeping thinking that spending another £80 or so might just do it!

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Tue 3 Jan 2012 10:06
Volkswagen Golf IV 1.6 16V SE 2002 - Intermittent starting problems. "Fix" or sell? - paul12345
Hi. I was just wondering did you ever find out what was wrong with the car I have got the same problem it sounds like not starting and being stuck all the time. I have also had the lamba sensor replaced and crank sensor replaced. My local garage are also stumped and want to go down the route of trial and error replacing parts. The car isn't worth the money. If you any info that might help fix it I would be very grateful.

Thanks
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Sat 10 May 2014 12:30
Volkswagen Golf IV 1.6 16V SE 2002 - Intermittent starting problems. "Fix" or sell? - ironlung

Hi guys,

I've been scouring the forums for help with mine, which seemed to fit the same description as this thread. I have a VW Bora 03 plate 1.9TDI. Had this intermittant starting problem also. After 7 months of replacing;

Fuel pump (3 times)
Fuel Filter &pipes
Rock gasket wiring? (I believe VW are the few manufacturers were the gasket has to be removed to access)
New ignition
New keys
New injector (the onboard diagnostics kept throwing out injector #4 with a code, which I can't remember)

After taking the car to CARWOODS in Coventry (diesel specialist) and an agreement with 2 other mechanics, found the fault to be the injector seals. As soon as the seals were replaced started first time every time, trialled for 2 weeks and can confirm all is resolved.

I do know there is no silver bullet for this problem, each case will probably have it's own fault. But I hope this helps someone as an avenue to look at.

John

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