I have a 96 a6, Came back from a 4 week trip and doors unlocked all lights came on but nothing when i turned the switch. Windows would not work even after I tried to jump it. So replaced the battery. Now windows work and get a slight click from under the car when I turn the key. I also had the ignition switch replaced about 2 months ago because it would not click back to the right postion after starting.

My next thought is the starter.. what to yall think? On a 96 do I have to take the front end apart?

 

If it doesn't turn at all and you hear it clicking, more probably it is your starter.

 

who replaced the ignition switch?

Jack up the car and while someone else works the ignition smack the starter with a hammer repeatedly -good whacks too don't be a sissy. If the solenoid or the motor is stuck it will start cranking if that works replace the starter.

It does sound like the starter is bad. The clicking means your getting power down there to the solenoid, but the starter motor is probably hung up.

 

Or the new battery isnt charged fully...

 

Check the ground between the body and frame.
Remove both ends clean the contact areas and replace.

 

generally battery discharges if the light is kept on at parking.battery should be of high quality

 

may be the battery is not in good condition. it should be checked