2001 Beetle wont start

[stumpydee]

Hello,

I have 2001 VW beetle, I drove it for about 2 hours the other day going to visit a friend parked the car made a phone call tried to start it again and its dead! When i turn the key all the dash board lights come on but the engine doesn't make a sound when i turn the key to start it. There is a slight buzzing noise from the battery but thats it. All other electrics seem fine.

I got a few friends to push the car down a hill and it started with a drift start. drove around again for a while but as soon as i turn the engine off it wont start again.

Any advice. I have an RAC warranty but i have crossed from northern ireland in the republic of ireland and they don't seem to want to help.

Thanks
Damian

[hako]

Check the fuses in the cover panel right on top of the battery - there's a 110A one that supplies power to the starter solenoid. Get back to the RAC head office re cover in other "countries". Good Luck mate.

[stumpydee]

Hi Hako,

Which fuse is it I think there are 3 fuses covered with green plastic. How do i know which one to look at? I have heard that if you take out the wrong on it can reset the dashboard light for the airbag.

Should i take the fuse out. Can i get a replacement?

Thanks
Damian

[hako]

Not the green fuses - to the left of those are 5 exposed fuses - check that these are not burnt out - they should be unbroken.
If worried about removing fuses to check them just remove the battery terminal first....then you can do no harm. Its only when people remove fuses when the engine is running or the ignition is on that problems occur.
I'd also locate the starter motor and make sure the cables going to it are not loose - same for the battery. Loose or corroded cables can cause your problem and are prime suspects.
Also check if your headlights are bright with the engine stopped - if not then either battery is buggered or cables to battery are bad. Terminals that go onto battery must be clean and tight. Good Luck.