Have only had our 15,000 mi. A3 for a week now. Traded in a Ford Expendition, quite the extremes! Twice now it has now started and showed SAFE in the display. Only after reinserting and retrying to start 7 or 8 times will it finally go. Does the same with all keys? Called dealer and they have no idea. Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Scott

 

Sorry, not started! Never could spell.

 

Not sure why the dealer said they have no idea, but that is an immobilizer problem

The funny thing is that after trying a lot that it will end up working, possibly a bad reader coil in the ignition switch

 

Thanks! Also found a tsb pertaining to engine that intermittantly will not crank, but no details. Still reseaching.

 

Sounds like you A3 should still be under warranty. Take it in and get them to fix it, and have them give you a courtesy car.

 

I will take it in next time we are in the 'big city'. Only 220 miles away! Oh well, another chance to drive. That's what we get for living in the middle of nowhere.