hey guys,
i have a 98 a4 1.8t, and sometimes (more in recently in the past month) that on cold days my engine would have problems starting. i would crank the starter and the car would sputter and try and turn on but won't unless i hold and crank the starter for about 15-30 seconds. i know that it is bad for the starter and it will wear out but i dont know what else to do to turn the car on. My uncles a mechanic but not specialized in audis or german cars and he said that its my spark plug or coils or the fuel injector pump. My friend who is also a mechanic (still not a german car guy) said it might be worn out cylinders and its getting by pass because the cylinders and worn and when its cold the metal constricts thus causing air to by pass instead of being pressurized to inject the fuel. i'm not really good with cars but i love them. i am taking my first auto class next quarter lol. please any help would be very appreciated. thanx

 

I would try replacing the coolant temperature sensor. Its cheap and probably the cause. Pretty common failure too.

 

check out crank sensor.

 

Keep up posted on what you find out.

I've had similar problems, but was told that poor cold idle is normal...

Replaced plugs, coils, CTS (twice w/new), did numerous TBAs, cleaned throttle body (3x), and replaced the ICM. Last resort is to get a software level upgrade (later).

 

thanx alot for the info, i already bought plugs and coils, if that doesnt work i will look ask my uncle for crank sensor and colant temp. sensor. hope all goes well, i'm gonna work on it this weekend. i'll keep you guys posted. thanx again.