it is me or

[CTWV50]

Originally Posted by Ianr

1998 Mk 2 with transponder key and 1.6 engine

Mmm, difficult one that. Could be the immobiliser. I don't have wiring diagrams for a 1997 only 1996. There is a wire that goes to the starter but also to the ST SIGN fuse that then feeds the ECU and fuel relay. If this wire is damaged you could turn over the engine without out it starting. The "click" sounds like it could be the fuel pump relay is faulty but it could also point to the other two possibilities.

So bypass or replace the fuel the pump relay and check the continuity of this feed wire to the ECU, if you still have the issue then possibly an immobiliser issue! HTH