VW Touran Ignition Issues: Common Causes & Fixes

Having some experience with VW models, I faced a similar starting issue with my 2013 VW Tiguan (gasoline). When the key turn problem first appeared, I also thought it was the ignition switch. After taking it to a workshop, they diagnosed it as a blown fuse connected to the car electronics system. The symptoms were nearly identical, inconsistent starting and occasional stalling. The mechanic checked the fuse box and found a damaged fuse that was causing intermittent power delivery to the ignition system. The total repair cost was 52€, which included diagnostics and fuse replacement. Since the fix, the starting issue has been completely resolved and the car runs smoothly. Before suggesting this might be your exact issue, it would help to know: Are there any warning lights on the dashboard? Does the key turn smoothly in the ignition switch? Have you noticed any electrical issues with other systems? When was the last time you had a full electrical system check? These details would help determine if your problem is fuse-related or if there might be another underlying issue with the ignition system components.

Last service was at 67000km and they did a full electrical system check which came back normal. The key turns smoothly in the ignition switch and there are no dashboard lights showing when this happens. The only electrical issue I notice is that sometimes the starter motor seems to engage but then immediately disengages without turning the engine over. The car runs perfectly fine between these unusual starting issues. Just worried it might leave me stranded somewhere if the problem gets worse. Sounds like my symptoms are a bit different from your fuse issue since Im not getting any warning indicators or stalling while driving. The car has been reliable up until now at 69383km, so this starting issue is quite unexpected.

Based on your description, particularly the starter motor behavior, this does sound different from the fuse issue I encountered. The symptoms you're describing, especially the starter engaging and disengaging, strongly suggest a starter motor problem rather than an ignition switch issue. In my Tiguan, when the starter began failing, it showed similar behavior before completely giving out. The starter solenoid would click, attempt to engage, but then disengage without properly turning the engine over. The repair involved replacing the entire starter motor assembly. The final cost was around 480€, including parts and labor. After the replacement, all starting issues were completely resolved. The lack of warning lights on your dashboard and the fact that the car runs perfectly between episodes matches the classic symptoms of a failing starter. Since your mileage is similar to when my issue occurred, it makes sense timing-wise. A quick test you can try: Next time it happens, turn the ignition key and listen carefully. If you hear a distinct click but no cranking, this further confirms the starter motor diagnosis. Would recommend getting it checked soon, as starter problems typically worsen over time. The risk of being stranded increases as the starter continues to deteriorate.

Thanks for sharing those details about the starter motor symptoms. The clicking sound you mentioned is exactly what Im experiencing! Its a relief to know this is likely a starter issue rather than something more complex with the ignition coil or broader car electronics system. I actually tried your test just now, turned the key and listened carefully. Got that same click without proper cranking, just like you described. Going to book a workshop appointment tomorrow to have them check the starter. The 480€ cost seems reasonable considering the potential risk of being stranded. Really helpful to hear about your experience with a similar problem and its resolution. Ill update once I get it fixed in case anyone else runs into similar starting troubles with their VW.