Follow up to my post that started this very informative thread.

Yesterday I purchased a Kostal switch from a list vendor.

I have load reduction relays on the headlight circuits and if this
switch fails I will put a relay in the starter solenoid circuit.  Does
anyone know how much current the 2002 TDI gear drive starter solenoid
draws?

My present switch is failing in the starter solenoid circuit as all my
switches in the past have failed.  Some of the last switches I used were
Meyle or looked exactly like Meyle to me even though they were purchased
from list vendors or from local branches of national auto parts chains
with different names.

In my very recent investigation, a clerk at one of the national chains
told me over the phone they could supply a superior part from Borg
Warner with a 5 year warranty for $39.  This is the first 5 year
warranty on an electrical part I have ever heard of but for that price
they could afford to replace the switch several times and still make a
profit.  This warranty may be true but I suspect the clerk made a
mistake in quoting the warranty period.  In any case, I prefer to have a
superior quality part than a fantastic warranty.

However, I do admit enjoying several times the lifetime warranty on the
rebuilt steering rack I purchased for $199 in 1995...

Thanks to all who contributed comments to this thread.

Ed