1998 Passat Electrical Issues

[fields55]

I have a 1999 Passat 1.8T manual transmission 96K. It has had several problems in the past, but most recently a factory weld on the catalytic converter cracked. The car sat for about 3 months before we made the repair. After the repair was made, the battery would not hold a charge. We immediately replaced the battery. The car ran great for about a week. Then the turn signals, wipers, and blower on heater/AC stopped working. The radio, head lights, interior lights and dashboard lights are all still working. If I engage any of the non-working parts the brake light comes on, when I turn them off, the brake light goes off.

What could be the problem? (ignition, comfort system control) What might it cost me? Will I ever get this thing in shape so I can sell it?!?!?

Thanks in advance for your insight.

[veedubmechanic]

Was it sitting over the winter where snow piled up on the windshield?

[fields55]

There were probably sometimes with snow, but not much. Where I live, we get some generous snow, but it doesn't last. When I got home the other day I tried jiggling the ignition and that does work. So I am thinking that is the problem.

[veedubmechanic]

Try installing an ignition switch electrical portion (on end of switch) first.