Hello All,

I have a 2003 A4 1.8T. When starting, if I don't press on the gas a couple times before or give it gas while starting, the car usually does not stay started (it will start but shortly after lose RPMs and die out). If I give it gas before or during start, it runs and idles fine (no need to keep foot on gas pedal to keep it running). There is no hesitation during acceleration and the MPG seem to be alright. I use 93 octane gas, have just changed the plugs, air filter, and fuel filter. (This happened before and since changing said items).

If it were the fuel pump, wouldn't I see hesitation when accelerating or some other symptomsother than just at start up?

Thank you all for your help. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
(I failed to mention that I am in Texas, so I haven't had any cold weather starts so far)

 

coolant temp sensor/fuel pressure lose/vacuum leak/choked fuel filter

 

dont know much about these fuel system but do they have cold start injectors?

 

no that's for the older cars on your its the coolant temp sensor that increases the fuel/air just like the old choke but its electronic

 

Hi guys,

Thank you very much for the replies. I'll check the forum on info on how to check the coolant temp sensor and and how to determine fuel pressure lose. If I find a solution that works, I'll post it.

 

Coolant sensor is a good place to start, but you really should get the car scanned for codes. It will help you narrow down the issues.

 

David, I really hope you can give me a hint on a similar issue I have here:

I could start my car the night before like usual (but my car is always hard to start when cold). I could not start the car next morning.

1) I've verified the fuel pump ran for about 20 seconds once I turned the key to the "on" position (without actually starting the engine); so I suppose the fuel pump works.
2) I've verified the spark plugs that they actually provided good sparks;
3) The first time I tried to start the engine in the morning, it actually tried to start but could not continue; when I tried to dig deeper in the evening, it won't even "try" to start;
4) I applied SeaFoam to the fuel tank and crank case about a week ago; I only consumed a quarter of tank gas;

I suspect it is my fuel filter as I have never changed it before. But if you could just give me a little bit input I would appreciate it. Thanks.