2008 petrol Octavia randomly won't start after being parked up for 20 mins. Seems to have battery and have attempted to jump start it, matrix is displaying time, but no lights on dash to indicate it's getting power when I put the key in ignition and turn nothing happens at all. Can lock/unlock, lights and radio still work, just zero happens when key put in ignition and turned.

 

Few people have suggested the ignition switch so think this  will be first port of call unless anyone has any other ideas?

 

Thanks! Stef

Sounds like an immobiliser/key issue to me. Have you been able to start the car since? If so, has it happened again since?

 

This older thread might have some useful info for you:

 

Hopefully someone more knowledgeable than me will be able to offer other suggestions/advice.

Half an update but no better off. 

 

New battery to eliminate that.

 

Changed the ignition switch to eliminate that.

 

Checked all the fuses, everything ok on that front.

 

Radio works, interior & exterior lights work. Locks, unlocks.

 

Have taken a video to explain better. No dash lights at all when key is inserted, turned etc.

I'm inclined to say that's either a failed relay (behind the fusebox in the dashboard), or - worst case, a failed instrument cluster. The fuel gauge isn't even moving when you turn the key. I think diagnostics might be the only option left if you've already replaced the battery and ignition switch.

 

I don't know how long you've owned the car, but the IRS calibration stamp below the speedo means it was originally a police car. police workshops can be less than kind to vehicles during the decommissioning process. It's unlikely that it would interfere with your instruments, but the electrical system on the mk2 Octy is renowned for being... a little delicate. I had an ex police Volvo 10 years ago and had to spend two days rewiring the headlights and rear lights. Police had cut right through the wiring looms to remove flasher units!

 

You might have a VCDS-equipped Briskoda user in your area. You can check here:

https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?msa=0&mid=1Td73_uUUqscV3nRm5br_o89PmBU&ll=21.259901462991696%2C83.39240985000004&z=3

 

Could well be the wire to the starter solenoid has snapped

Update - Now fixed.

 

Fixed it a few weeks after posting, removed the underbonnet fuse board top and one of the connections was fried underneath for the starter relays.

Cleaned up, recrimped and it's started and done 5k since. Changing the ignition switch helped alot of previously mysterious issues too. Like the radio randomly cutting out and the doors unlocking and locking again.