I have a 97 A4 2.8. Just recently I have been having problems starting my car. When I turn the key, the engine sounds like it normally does when it starts, but when I let go of the key, the engine just dies out. I have to try this several times before the engine stays on and I am able to drive it. The only things I have done recently was a fuel system cleaner and I replaced the headlight bulbs. Any help fixing this or identifying the problem would be greatly appeciated.

 

I am hoping someone can shed some light on this. I think I have found the problem but want to know of there is an easy fix for this. It seems that the key is slipping from its position in the ignition and this in turn turns off the engine. Does anyone have any idea what I need to do to fix this?

 

sounds like he ignition switch needs replacement
i dont know about how to replace, but the part is available

 

Would you have any idea of how expensive this would be and if it can be replaced by a novice such as myself?

 

does it throw any codes at you?

 

I am not sure what codes you are referring to. No warning light comes up on the dashboard. Everything else seems normal

 

Ignition switch 32 $ at any VW or Audi dealer I am sure you could find it for a few cheaper online but unless you can also find free shipping I would suggest a vw dealer.

Common acts of a bad ignition, the car stays in the start position or the key rolls back to the off position. It will only get worse. I had one go out and i had to hold it in place all the way home on the freeway at 2 am (and I had a manual). I am not too sure on how to replace Audis, I tried it when mine went out, but I could not get mine out. Pretty much you open up the instrument cluster and and there is a white cylinder behind where your key goes in. That is the switch, pull it out replace it good as new. Really easy, but the placement is really awkward so good luck. blauparts.com will give you instructions if you order from them. Billing Labor, 2.5 hours. (Thats how much this job sucks)

 

Were the headlight bulbs going out sometimes? I noticed you replaced them... your ignition switch turns off the headlights when it gets stuck on. I would say time to replace the ignition switch.

 

I would suggest the coolant Temp Sensor also.
This will keep the car from starting if it is bad.

Go to Autozone and get the codes read. Then let us know what they are. Whe can give a better idea of whats wrong then.

 

Just an update to this. I finally got the problem fixed. It was the ignition switch. The part was only $40 and the labor was about $180.