All-

I have a '96 A6 2.7. I went to try to start my car and when I turn to the key to start nothing happens. The battery is good, the voltmeter indicates over 12 V, when I try to jump the car this doesn't help. The radio and electrical items work, but when the key is turned to 'start' there is nothing, no noise, no anything.

I'm assuming it something with either the ignition switch or solenoid relay, but I don't have a schematic for this system.

Does anyone have a schematic they can share? Or can someone tell me which relay is the solenoid relay?

Thanks in advance.

 

I had lights/radio on a car I stored for the winter, but the battery wasn't charged enough to start the car. I did hear the clicks as it tried to fire the starter solenoid. Could it be the starter? Maybe putting it in high gear and rolling it a little could help -- or if it's a stick, push start it. The ignition switch should be good if accessories come on, assuming they do not work when the switch is "off".

 

Check your fuses.

 

I vote for the ignition switch. I had to do that on mine, which is 01. I understand the 96 is in the dash? Anyways, that's what I think.

 

I vote for ignition switch too

 

The ignition switch seems like a likely culprit. This is the third ignition switch I'll have installed in 4 years. The first two failed in a way that left the started engaged after it was started.

When I buy a new ignition switch will I need new keys?

 

No. The switch is connect at the end of the tumbler. The tumbler does not need to be changed. So no new keys are needed.

 

Remove the ground wire between the motor and frame clean the surfaces and replace it. If that dosen't work it is either the ignition switch or the wire from the switch to the starter solenoid

 

the starter is bad...