1997 Audi A4 2.8 Quattro 5spd.

After many many phone calls and two trips to the dealer, still no results.

Problem:
1. Ignition Switch failed - apparently tripping the anti-theft system.
2. Cannot reset the anti-theft system. Turning the key in the ignition the dash lights come on, but the starter will not engage.
3. Checked and verfied correct operation of the clutch switch, starter, solenoid, and ignition switch and battery.
4. Car can be push started and runs fine, but of course, after shutting off, the starter will not turn over to restart the engine.


Is there a sequence of tasks that can be performed WITHOUT hooking the computer up to VAG to reset the anti-theft system?
We have the 4 digit security code.


Anyone have ANY IDEA how to remedy this? My closest Audi Dealer is 180 miles away and it proved to be a worthless trip. I've heard rumors that there is a sequence of Ignition switch turns, gas pedal pushes, and cruise control selections (and possibly a sacrificial goat is involved) to get the system reset. Anyone have any ideas?!?!?!?

Please help, car has been dead for 4 days now. argh!

 

hmm. You can reset everything by disconnecting the battery terminal for an hour or so. Don't know if that will help you. I've never heard of the security system locking like that though. Do you live in Europe by chance?

 

I am having the same problem! Audi says I have to pay them a thousand dollars to reprogram the dash, or something. Isn't there a way around this??

 

I had a problem with my alarm system as well, it was randomly going off, and thankfully, I had the ability to contact the specialists and get it changed.

 

Oh, I had that problem, but with my home security, and it turned out that all the alarms by that brand could randomly go off just to check whether they were working or not, but I don't really remember the name of the brand. That's when I decided to get an Ajax one, and by far, everything is working perfectly. If they had an alarm system for cars, I'd get it immediately because the home system was really easy to install and connect to my phone.