2012 Polo Comfortline - start issue

[Renegade]

Hi guys,
I have a minor issue with my Polo.
When it sits with the engine off for more than a few hours (usually overnight), it won't start unless I have the throttle pressed prior to the engine turning. (usually about halfway) When I try without throttle, it does seem to get the engine turning over, but it just doesn't come to life.

That being said, if I switch it off completely and try starting it a second time, it comes alive instantly, without needing any throttle at all.

I'll likely take it down to a mechanics next week, but would anyone have any thoughts on what might be happening?

[Raiden337]

Yeah leave it with VW overnight so they can replicate it with the diagnostic hooked up.

The throttle and powering down /back up point towards an issue priming the fuel system. Could be pressure or contamination.


That and it could also be a gremlin getting his morning laugh at your expense.

[alexaescht]

Try turning the key to the run position (before start) and back to off, twice before then trying to start the engine. If it starts fine after that I'd suspect a fuel priming issue as mentioned above as cycling the key builds fuel pressure from the in-tank pump up to the fuel rail.

[Renegade]

Looks to be that you are both correct. I left the car for a few days and turned the key twice before starting up and it didn't need throttle to get going properly.
Thanks all!