Dan12

08 TT Cab. 21K miles


Usually won’t start on the first try. Then second try does it.

I found several discussions about it but no clear solution. Some tried new battery with mixed success so I think its something else.

If I leave the key in for 10 seconds then it will start on the first try. Any suggestions.

ljpviper

Common issue, i would not loose sleep over it. These cars tend to do some weird stuff especially if you don't drive them much.

dpert1

If leaving the key in helps then it sounds like a fuel pressure issue. Perhaps it needs some extra time to build pressure for whatever reason?

LexVan

All maintenance up to date? Including plugs?

Ever run a tank of fuel with Techron prior to oil change?

Igooz

A few years ago I was told that you also need to replace the battery in your "smart" ignition key. There is a security "hand shake" that takes place when you initially insert the key.

Has this ever been done?

Dan12

Plugs were done at 20K, I'm at 22K miles. Original owner had a service record at 15K for the same issue. There was no problem found???

Battery in the key is a good suggestion, I'll try it. i find it odd that this is a common issue but without a definite solution.

Not a big problem after all, but people wonder why it doesnt start initially.

Dinosaur

this happens to me too...

just took it to dealer.....they tested starter, battery, charging system, etc....(thank you CPO!)

all they came up with was that water in battery was low and it just needs to be serviced....

and i thought sealed batteries don't need to be serviced or topped off with water?....

Dan12

Maybe thats all it is. I had planned to charge the battery and try to start it on a full charge. I'll check the water level also. we'll see.

1010THs

I had this issue too and was considering changing to a new factory battery. Then a car buddy recommended reconditioning my existing battery with a CTEK (56-864) MUS 4.3 12 Volt Fully Automatic 8 Step Battery Charger. I use their accessory cigarette charger plug and issue went away after plugging it in for 24 hours. It cranks up on first try every time.

Duckstu

Try this,...

Switch the key all the way on,.. but don't actually crank. Turn it back off. Then try to start it.

If it starts normally after doing that,... it's probably the check-valve in the fuel pump.

I had it happen to my last car. The check valve in the pump goes bad,.. and instead of holding 30 or so psi of residual pressure for weeks after the car is switched off,... it goes down to zero right away. They you have a LONG crank to start it each time.

Ibanezgod

Turn the car on then start the car. I have the same issue sometimes when just going for broke and turning the key all the way

mpiffaretti

I have the exact same problem on my 07 TT. I changed my battery last month to the OEM Porsche, and the problem still persists. So that rules out the battery on my process of elimination. I was told by my mechanic that Corrosion on the - terminals could also be the culprit, as well as potential issues with the cable harness from the battery to the starter being low gauge for the amount of amps needed. This latter theory I seriously doubt, otherwise the problem would have been prevalent when the car was new. The fuel pressure with the check valve sounds more like it.

Ibanezgod

it's not the battery, i replaced mine in the Fall and it didn't change anything.

LexVan

What about coil packs??

cjcam930

This may be a reach, but in the early Porsches the ground points were very crucial and often problematic. If you're in a wet area or "salt state" it may be a good idea to inspect and clean the grounds.