Argh.....car won't start!

[neil_f]

Help! Car won't start ! Used it the other day and then when I went out the following day it wouldn't start. Press the starter button and nothing ....doesn't try and crank or make any noise at all. Fault code is p1724 starter interlock signal short to ground . Searched on here and sounded like lower clutch switch . Upper switch was replaced about 6 months ago due to cruise control failing. Bought a genuine lower switch from Audi and fitted it today . Still no joy . New switch seems to be different from the old one in that the plunger isn't on a ratchet mechanism. Followed the correct installation instructions , press clutch pedal down whilst installing and locking switch on place so fairly confident that the switch is fine . Could it be the relays ? As a side note the car had been a bit lumpy on idle recently and I reckoned the maf was on its way out as it would cut out if the clutch was depressed at medium to high revs and a Vag Com log reading was 140g/s. Suggestions?

[MikeFish]

Is the battery fully charged?

[coffey555]

When installing the switch, did it make a loud click as you rotated it into place? It takes a firm twist.

[neil_f]

Is the battery fully charged?

Yes.

[neil_f]

When installing the switch, did it make a loud click as you rotated it into place? It takes a firm twist.

Eh yeah it certainly made a click when I rotated it about 45degrees .

[coffey555]

I thought my one was fully seated but had to give it a final hefty twist to get it fully home. Trust me, you will know it when it is fully seated, it gives a loud click.

Sure I had to use a pair of pliers to carefully get that last little bit of rotation.

[neil_f]

So quick update.....got it running! Turned out the plunger on the upper clutch switch had become jammed in causing the pedal to barely make contact . Removed switch, extended plunger and refitted . Starts no bother now. Thanks for all the advice. Glad it worked out a cheap solution for once . Rare occurrence on these cars lol!

[coffey555]

Glad you got it fixed. Has it fixed the idle issue?

[neil_f]

Glad you got it fixed. Has it fixed the idle issue?

No idle issue still the same . Just back from logging the mad again and parked at 147g/s. Revs still hand a bit when clutch is pressed in and car moving. Starts first press of the button now though instead of having to hold the button in .