<<  Now, I before I start the van, I wait until the light looks like a flower
 before turning the key. Sometimes it takes a long time. >>

Okay, folks. This is really silly. This flashing light at start-up is NOT an
"IGNITION LIGHT".

There is no such thing, it doesn't exist. It is purely made up. Fiction. Like
your invisible friend. Like having to "rotate the air in your tires". Like
"snipe hunting". Someone invented this, and you are victim of an urban (VW)
folk myth.

The light HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH YOUR IGNITION.

Unless you drive a diesel, and are waiting for the yellow glow plug light
(non-flashing) to extinguish, the rest of you are sitting, waiting for the
coolant temperature/underfill warning light to finish its lamp test. The
circuit simply allows you to verify that the coolant warning circuit works.
There is absolutely no reason to wait. Why don't you start waiting for the
alternator and oil warning lights to go out!

Check the wiring diagram. Check your owner's manual. Better yet, go tell a
good VW mechanic about how you wait for the light to stop flashing. Then help
him up off the floor and wipe the tears of laughter from his eyes.

There is no ignition light. Sorry to be so direct, I just hate to see folks
deluding themselves. :)

gmbulley
cary, nc