Push the clutch in, turn the key, nothing...

[bob/ft.worth]

About every 8-10 starts, I push the clutch in, turn the key (dash lights come on), but the car doesn't kick over. I release the clutch, press it in again and it starts like normal.

I'm worried that I'll get stranded. It's an 03 C2. I guess it's going in to the dealer but anyone know what's going on?

[chicagobob]

maybe its a bad starter???

[Poursha]

I had a '99 Carrera, '02 Carrera, and now a '04 Carrera. Several times with my '04 Carrera, I turned the ignition and nothing happened, then I tried pushing the clutch down harder, and it turned over. It seems like they made the clutch switch more "demanding" than in past years, so you really need to push down hard on the clutch to be able to start the car. Could be what you're experiencing.

[bob/ft.worth]

Sure sounds right. Clutch switch? I presume some kind of switch that prohibits starting the car without the clutch being depressed? Do you know where it is?

thanks for the reply

[nova996]

On my car (03 C2) I can easily hear the clutch switch operate. It switches right at the end of the pedal travel. I hear a definite click before I turn the key or before I switch a gear.

[red*farm]

2 possibilities.

1 clutch switch...just try strapping a zip tie on it. you will be able to start car w/o clutch in so be careful.

2 near dead battery in key?

[CO996C4]

I agree with the last possibility.. Mine has done that and I locked/unlocked with remote and then ti would start.

Jim

[georgem]

I have a '99 C2 with 19,500 miles. Recently, ignition would not go to zero position and key got stuck. Go the key out, reinserted, started the car and the starter didn't disengage for a few seconds. Replaced the electrical portion of the switch and now the panel lights up but starter doesn't turnover. I read on this forum where someone found a VW replacement switch. Anyone have a part number or VW year/model or any other ideas? Or do I need to help Pioneer Porsche pay the rent?