FloridaDubbin

or maybe the spark plugs? it has 151,000 miles

So when i go to start the car i have to hold the key for a bit and when it finally starts the first time it doesn't really start all the way. the rpms stay a little above 1,000 and if i try to drive while its like that it sputters and the doesn't really respond to the gas. so i have to shut it off and it starts up normally the second time. i just bought it a week ago and it started up fine for the first 5 days or so. was wondering if it could be the battery but after the second start it always runs fine. any suggestions? -2003 gti vr6

Found the problem. One of the wires wasn't plugged into the circuit. Thanks for all the help!

CALICO yes it is

yes

also wanted to add that when i brake the lights illuminate but when I'm driving with my lights on only the little white lights are illuminated

so my taillights do not work, however the white backup lights are. I checked the fuse and it's fine. checked the bulbs, they're fine too. So I'm not sure if something is just unplugged or what. Please help? -2003 mk4 gti