It's getting colder here. I went this morning to start my car. Nothing. when I turned the key some lights came on the dashboard but no ignition. I tried to boost the battery with my neighbors car. still nothing, so I know it is not the battery ( although the + has a lot of oxidation junk around it). could it be the starter? alternator,? spark plugs?....
after couple of trials, I hear a clicking sound but no ignition. please help.

 

Clicking sounds is most likely from the starter, might need to get it replaced.

 

is it DIY or need a mechanic> how much does it cost labor and parts?.

 

I have done it before on another vehicle, it is pretty simple removing 2 bolts and installing the new one and connecting it, Not sure on the Audi but guessing should be the same. Check at a parts store for the starter should not be to spendy.

 

I would not be quick to jump to the conclusion that the battery is good.

Cold morning, clicking , battery oxidation all equals poor conduction path and or week battery.

Jumping only works if there is a good connection.

If you have a volt meter on the dash it should read somewhere between 12 and 14 volts.

Next I would make sure the terminals are clean. Remove the cables from the battery and clean them. I usually use a wire brush.

If that dosen't do it try jumping again with the clean terminals.I had an A6 that was hard to jump because the auxillary terminal under the hood was very dirty. Once we cleaned it, jumping worked OK.

If that dosen't work there is most likely a problem with the starter....

It can be easy to change on some cars and hard on others - depending upon what is in the way - just make sure to disconnect the battery before trying to remove wires at the starter because one of the big ones goes directly to the battery and you could experience a slight jolt. The electricity isn't too bad but bumping your head on the underside of the car can really hurt.... LOL

 

Almost forgot If the gage dosen't read 12 volts or more the battery is low or bad... Low could be because of a bad alternator, slipping belt, lights left on, or the battery is dying.

 

thank God it is not the alternator.
I took out the battery yesterday, cleaned the connectors and the cables very well. re-installed and the car started without hesitation. the voltmeter is reading above 12. so, I guess I'm OK. it even started this morning when it was cold outside.