My daughter's '96 2.8 A4Q had a starting problem this AM. Turn the key, all dash lights came on but no solenoid click and no starter turnover. I tried 6 or 7 times and finally it did start and all appears normal. I'm thinking bad ground/loose batt. cables but haven't had time to check it out yet. Anybody else had a similar issue?

Bob

 

Is there a lot of corrosion on the terminals? Clean them, and replace the connections if needed. It sounds like it's just not getting enough amps through.

 

prolly just the batt.

 

Could be bad battery, or starter.

When my starter went, it did the same thing. Nothing. No click, no sound, nothing.

Test battery with voltmeter at terminals. If thats OK, remove belly pan, and test for battery voltage at the starter terminals. (you'll need someone to turn the key for you.)
If you have battery voltage at the starter, then your starter is bad. I replaced DIY for $175, bosch lifetime warranty starter.

 

Thanks, will check out batt. & starter if necessary!