No crank and dash lights turn on

1999 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA

190,000 MILES • 2.0L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

PASTAPLE

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I had charged the battery - 12 volts now. The brake light switch was causing the right rear brake light and middle brake light to come on randomly after it had not been driven for 2 days. Ran the battery down, that is why it is now charged the battery and I replaced the brake light switch.
The car started two times and then we turned it off to get somethings before starting it again.
Now you can turn the key on however it will not crank and no clicking noise.
Also noticed when I try to open the trunk with the door switch it popped the trunk one time, however it will not open the trunk now, not sure if that has anything to do with the starting issue.
I turned the key in the door lock for the trunk in either position and it will not pop the trunk OR turn over when the key is in the ignition. very odd because it started great after charging the battery, replacing the brake light switch and now nothing?

Thank you for any help you can offer.

Sep 17, 2021 at 7:23 AM

SQM

✓Experienced Mechanic
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

Just so we cover the basics. Have you tried to jump start the car?
You want to make sure it not a bad battery.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-jump-start-car-battery-using-jumper-cables

If you are able to jump start it then, you just have a bad battery.

If it does not jump start, then let me know what it does when try to jump it. If it just clicks or cranks over without starting etc.

Please let me know what you find.
Thank you.

Sep 17, 2021 at 11:48 AM

PASTAPLE

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Same thing happens, no clicking, no cranking when you try to jump start the Jetta.
What could cause it to all of sudden not start, after it started right up two times.
PS: I had replied to your reply however it doesn't seem to be here?
Sorry, so I am replying again.

Thank you

Sep 24, 2021 at 9:01 AM

SQM

✓Experienced Mechanic
6,383 POSTS

If you are not getting anything when you turn the key. The it could be the ignition switch or a short in the wiring to the starter.
The ignition switch is the electrical component that the lock cylinder attaches to.
It has a several pins and the pin for the starter could be loose or corroded.
This might require checking few items like the wiring, fuses and the switch.

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Sep 24, 2021 at 1:47 PM

PASTAPLE

MEMBER
3 POSTS

I will check this out and get back to you, it might take a few days.

Thank you

Sep 27, 2021 at 8:55 AM

SQM

✓Experienced Mechanic
6,383 POSTS

You are welcome.

Sep 27, 2021 at 1:58 PM

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