1999 1.8t passat start and clock problems

:shakehead
hi there, i have just got myself a nice 1999 1.8l turbo passat.
i wish i had looked at this forum first though as it is seeming to be a bad choice.
i have had it 2 weeks and all seemed well.
the last few days i have been having start up problems: the car turns over and the starter clicks but it seems to take a while to start. when eventually it fires my clock and odometer have reset, this is irritating more than anything but the starter problems are worrying me.
the guy i got it off assured me he had fitted a new t belt, and i hope this is not the cause. its got 97000 on it at the mo and i hoped i could get a few years out the engine.
any ideas on the starter problems and any advice on how to keep it going for a few more years?
please help me... thanks

Check your onboard computer for codes OBDII or VAG-COM. Also, I suggest you purchase VAG-COM on-line about $85, it will eliminate a lot of your problems. Passat is nice car.

Sounds like it needs a new battery. I would only reccomend replacing with a VW battery. I have seen lots of aftermarket batteries (sears, autozone, ect..) the terminals are too small and the battery cables will not tighten down.