Hello, I just found this site and really hope someone can help me.

In summary, my trusty 2000 A4 has decided today to give me some problems. I left work for lunch, parked the car, and when I returned it wouldn't start, just rapid clicking and rapid indicator light flashing.

When the engine didnt turn I noticed that the "Press Clutch to Start" display message and some of the other indicator lights were off. Normally it is on when the key is in. Upon trying to start the car again some of these lights came on but flashed while something else was clicking rapidly. I took the key out, waited a few minutes, and tried again. Still just a lot of clicking. I waited then tried again, this time when I put the key in all the lights, guages, and display were completely on. I tried again and it still wouldn't start. Frusrated, I waited a few more minutes, then tried again and the engine fired right up like nothing had happened.

I got home and parked the car, happy that I didn't have tow it. Thinking it was just a fluke, I tried to start the car again, and same symptoms. Now it won't start.

I would love if anyone can help me troubleshoot this. I am thinking it could be the starter but would that cause such strange dash light activity?

Thanks in advance.

 

Ignition switch

 

Actually go to autozone and get the fault codes and post them first.

 

What's the matter, you don't want to tell him the answer before he has to do work and try to solve it on his own? We all know you're a human VAG-com, don't deny it

 

Either ignition switch or your battery has loose connections or is close to dead.

 

Oh yeah, i can run guided fault finding scans in my head and print out the results from my butt.

 

I'm not going to touch that print-out.

 

Hi quick question, how am I to get my car to AutoZone when it won't start? Isn't there a way I can do self diagnostic when it starts up?

 

Not really, you can either tow that pile to the nearest dealership, or install an ignition switch after checking the battery with a volt meter.
If you don't wanna guess it then i suggest getting it towed to a repair shop.

 

from the sound of ur first post, u don't sound very mechanically inclined. i would try to jump it and if it still doesn't start, then get it towed to the nearest trusted shop. but like some others have said, it's prolly ignition switch or a bad connection sum wheres. o ya since u have a 5 speed, try pop starting it too.