Scirocco Central

Hi chaps. New member here, but this forum has been a great source of info in the past.

Car is refusing to start, although the starter is turning over strongly (battery and plugs are all nearly new). 'ESP Error' appears on the dash display. Although I've had ABS/ESP problems in the past, with various parts replaced (rear wheel ABS sensor just a few hundred miles ago), none of them has stopped the engine firing. It seems an odd set of circumstances.

Not had the chance to get error codes checked yet, but any ideas on what the cause could be? Views welcome. Thanks.

I would imagine the ESP error is a consequence of low voltage due to the operation of the starter motor and not directly related to what's preventing the car starting.

Could well be, the message doesn't come up immediately. I'm suspecting an earthing problem, but it's just a guess at this stage.

In my experience the ABS / ESP control module is the first to give an error when the voltage dips.
With regards to not starting, crank sensor (engine speed sensor) is a possibility but its a stab in dark until you get the codes read.

Update on this one:

Error code U0100 was returned, 'Lost communication with ECM/PCM'. We cleared the error and everything seems fine now. My mechanic thought it was a transient problem caused by very hot conditions and a voltage dip on the battery. I'll be keeping the battery topped-up more frequently now, but will post further if it reoccurs.

Thanks Cuprabob for the response, spot-on re the ESP message!

Good news