battery cutting out

[vw_golf_nutter]

hi all, i have a mk3 2.0 cabrio.
the last couple of days when starting my car it occasionally cuts out, i go to start it and turn the key and it turns then has a blank second then starts and my clock has re-set so the powers gone somewhere.
any suggestions what this might be?

[itavaltalainen]

measure voltage after the car has been standing overnight. should be 12V. If less than battery most likely flat, try charging, if that does not help replace (got a 1yr old varta here for sale).

then measure with engine running, should be around 14V.
if not it's the alternator regulator not spitting out enough juice, replace regulator. here is a how to i've done a short while ago, it's in german but with pictures it's so clear anyone can do it (you don't have to take the alternator out of the car to change the regulator):

http://www.motor-talk.de/forum/aktion/Attachment.html?attachmentId=716521

[vw_golf_nutter]

the batteries only 6 months old and it doesnt turn over slow like a flat battery would, its just like it has a little short before it fires up.
do you reckon i should just change the regulator?

[itavaltalainen]

why'd you wanna change the reg without testing it first?

if battery is not flat then possible ignition barrel, not uncommon, or cold solder spot in relay 30 or 167, or anti theft control unit

[vw_golf_nutter]

sorry im a complete novice at this really!
funny you mention ignition barrel it might well be that coz its been tempremental with the live when you turn the key all the way to the left (turn car off) sometimes the radio flickers on and off. hhmmm

[itavaltalainen]

there you go then

replace the barrel switch as first step, most likely fault

[thai-wronghorse]

Mine did this last night which got me in a panic as ive only stuck a new  battery on it 2 weeks ago.  Ignition switch is exactly what sprung to mind though,  thats a job for next weekend then i guess.