Do I need a new ECU....!?

[littlegingadave]

Hello, I drive a 55 plate GTI DSG and I am having an intermittant problem with starting the engine.

This is the sequence of events when the engine doesn't start: When I put the key into the ignition everything seems as normal. When I turn the key to switch on the electronics the usual dash lights come on however, the ESP light remains lit on the dash, and the ESP button light is on on the lower console. Also though, the P light on the DSG selector panel (next to the stick) flashes regularly. If I then try to turn the key to start the engine, nothing happens - no turn over, absolutely nothing.

I also can't move the gearstick out of Park (the green light that normally appears on the dash reminding you to depress the brake lever doesn't appear) so even with the brake pedal depressed and the button on the DSG stick pushed in, I can't move the gearstick out of park.

Eventually, after taking the keys in and out of the ignition, sometimes once, sometimes more, the car starts as normal, no ESP lights etc all normal.

This started to happen a week or two ago and now is becoming more of a problem, maybe happening on about 20% of starts.

I've searched forums etc and found a similar case (similar in terms of the ESP light staying on and engine not starting - don't think it was DSG). That person had to have the ECU replaced at a cost of ~£700.

Does anyone recognise the problem?

Many thanks,

Dave

[rubber toe]

Have you had your car scanned for faults ?? If no faults are logged I would try an ignition base switch 1st , not an uncommon fault on mk5s 

[bacillus]

Do you have a second key for the car and if so does the same thing happen if you use it?
I'm wondering if you have a problem with your immobiliser. The most appropiate course of action IMO would be to try to get a vcds scan from a helpful member to see if you can narrow down the list of possibilities.

[Greeners]

Pretty sure I read about someone having the same problem on here a few weeks ago.........

[Phathead]

I had this problem on a DSG Audi TT, three or so years ago, and all it turned out to be was a brake light switch.

The ESP warning was due to not having any brake pedal signal and therefore no brake lights, and unable to disengage the selector solenoid.

So it could be something and nothing. As Rubber Toe said, get your faults scanned as if the ESP light has been flashing it should have logged a fault.

[littlegingadave]

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll try and get it scanned this week then update you with how i get along.