I have a 1.9tdi PD 130 and has been great up until yesterday. The fault is the starter won't crank the engine (silence). After checking the battery I removed the starter motor and bench checked it. Works fine so refitted and cleaned up all terminals. However there is no 12V at the solenoid (I know I should have checked this first but multimeter was out partying so couldn't pick it up until later). If I jump the 12V directly from the battery to the solenoid the starter works fine and engine runs normally. No fault codes on my reader (basic one). I have also exposed the wiring as far away from the solenoid connector as I can and checked continuity to the solenoid plug and this is fine.

So...I'm guessing the ignition switch is faulty or connections to it. I've ruled out the immobiliser (as the engine runs).

Any other suggestions? and does anyone know he screw type to remove the steering wheel shroud to access the back of the ignition switch? Also does anyone think it would be a problem to wire in a remote starter switch to get me going in the meantime?

Many thanks for any replies.

Assuming you have a manual gearbox ? then the wire comes from the ignition switch (Red/Black wire) to a 6 pin connector in the plenum chamber and on to the starter motor (Black wire)

Thanks Nige. Yes manual gearbox. The 6 pin connector seems like the next best check area. The plenum chamber is below the base of the windscreen? (excuse my ignorance)

The last thing I did before this problem arose was to lift the bonnet to check the oil if this is any way related?  

Yeah the area under the trim panel at the base of the windscreen, on the drivers side 

15 hours ago, SimonGarry said:

So...I'm guessing the ignition switch is faulty or connections to it.

Well, if it's not the immo, and you have other ignition-switched functions, I'd be checking the wiring connections to the solenoid and starter motor.

OK fixed now. Ordered a new ignition switch  (£6) and fitted today. Took an hour to replace taking it slow and steady. I have the luxury of starting the car from the inside now instead of hot wiring it every time 🙂

Thanks for suggestions.