Hello,

I own a 2000 A6 2.7 I bought at an insurance auction. I replaced the front bumper cover, or at least the shop I pad to did. This was Early to mid September. A few days ago I got in my car and started it and the battery or charge indicator on the display showed the vehicle at 12 amps rather than almost full as usual. I figured maybe the cold was killing the battery and driving it would help charge it. NO SUCH Luck. When I got in my car in the morning to leave work the car showed the power at the halfway mark of 8. I live about 5 miles from my work, and in that 15 minute drive during morning rush the power needle began to drop until the battery symbol lit up. I was sitting in a turn lane ready to turn into my street with oncoming traffic and the needle almost hit zero, the car began to freak out and so did I. I was able to get into my driveway, and now I start the car and its power level is at around 6-7. I would think if it was the battery it would not dye so rapidly. Any ideas....please do not tell me the alternator . The person who owned this car before I dont think did any upkeep. To boot I found weed in the car ..."I swear officer that was in their when i bought the vehicle" yeah right. I love this car even though it goes through gas like its free. Thanks for any suggestions

 

sure sounds like the alternator need to check it with a voltmeter to see if you are getting any out put. If its a bad alternator it is a real pita to get to!

 

alternator or voltage regulator!

 

Thanks to all. I will go past the auto store and have them check it the voltage regulate and alternator

 

Thanks. Do you happen to know where I can get a how to or diy on removing and replacing the alternator? I noticed that the serpentine belt also whines when started. Once that began this problem occured. This may have to be replaced as well, do you consider that task a DIY job? any idea where to find out info on how to do this? Thanks for all the help.

 

Look on AudiWorld as most DIYs are posted there. Some people recommend changing the starter when changing the alternator becuase both are a PITA and, to change the starter you have to remove the alternator.

 

Sounds like the amount of money in your wallet is about to drop suddenly too

Sounds like alternator and I have not heard many good things about Autozone alternators.. if you are ripping the front of your car off to change the alternator .. better make sure you get a quality one .. or do what i did and get your own rebuilt.