97 golf k2 starter keeps running after ignition.

[bockmann]

97 golf k2, standard, 4 cyl/2 liter gas

several days ago i noticed a "zinging" sound during ignition. also for about a second after i began driving. yesterday i tried to start & got a quick "zing", then nothing (wouldn't start). no clicks. lights (in & out) worked great.

my buddy removed the starter, had it tested (parts store said it was bad), bought a rebuilt one & installed it. car cranked perfectly (sounded better than before) several times. after about the fifth crank, engine turned on & starter continued to zing, even after car was turned off. now, as long as battery cable is connected it zings.

note: i was told my ignition switch went out about a year ago -- stereo will only work when car is off, door chimes think the lights are on when they're not, etc. could this be it?

any ideas are GREATLY appreciated!!!

[boschmann]

If the starter runs as long as te battery is connected try removing the small red/black wire on the starter solenoid that comes from the ignition switch. If it still tries to engage its a bad starter, if not there is something stuck in the starter circuit.