Got car to start after disconnecting the negative terminal due to anti theft problems. Now the car turns over and starts but shuts off immediately. The battery light is on. What could be the issue?

if your battery light is on that is indicating you have a battery issue. how old is your battery ? most people are lucky to have there battery last 4-5 years. The alternator could also be the issue so a load test would be good. A corroded ground could cause this issue as well.

The battery is brand new. I had it towed to a buddy's shop. I'm sure he will do testing. An electrical shop rebuilt the alternator. I did notice at the bottom of the alternator near a coolant hose there seemed to be a small leak. The coolant level in the reservoir has decreased slightly.

I am The golfs had alot of issues with a 4 pronged pipe that fits into the end of the engine for coolant flow, its located at the back of the engine on the drivers side. Often the housing would crack and cause a leak in the process it ruins the coolant sensor which often causes the car to think it is over heating and shutoff. This could be the issue spot of the starting issues. What type of engine does your car have it will help the trouble shooting process. IF you can take a picture of the spot you see leaking and post it hear. does not have to be super close photo just above the general area is fine so i can see how your car is configured.

The car isn't here at the moment, but the leak is near the passengers side, behind the wheel, underneath the alternator. The engine is a 2.0 non turbo. Once I have access to the car again I will post a picture. Thanks for all of the help troubleshooting. I really appreciate it.

well on the 2.0 engine the part under the alternator is the water pump... if thats leaking your going to want to get it replaced. When was the last time the timing belt was replaced? the water pump often will start leaking after some 130 - 150,000 km. longer if your lucky. if you did not already know the timing belt should be done every 90,000 km. The leak might just be a old hose starting to go but its most likely the water pump seal. the garage should be able to track this leak down for you so that you will know exactly whats leaking.