Hi. I have a 2004 dark blue A4 convertible with about 33K miles. The problem I'm having is I can't get the engine to turn over. When I turn the key to the start position, I hear a fast, loud clicking (the starter?).

The problem first surfaced about 6 weeks ago. The car had been to the dealers to reprogram a new key. I had also filled the tank with cheap gas (which I normally never do.).

The problem would occur about 50% of the time I started my car. But I could always get it to start just by continuously turning the key off and on and stepping on the gas. Eventually the engine would turn over.

Each tie the problem occurred, the clock in the car would re-set itself to 12:00 and the date would revert back to 2003. Its as if the battery had been detached and re-attached.

I had the starter and battery checked out and was told everything was in very good shape.

Then the problem went away for a month. (I had started using premium gas again, just in case this was the problem).

Then last night - same problem. Only no matter what I did I could not get the engine to turn over.

Does anyone have any idea what is happening?

 

The clicking sound could be caused by a weak battery not having enough "juice" to fully engage. Sure sounds like your battery (or the connections to your battery) are causign the issue (gas would not cause this). Have you made sure the cables running from the battery to the starter are secure and do not have any breaks in them? Also, did you have your alternator checked? That could be at fault as well.