I've run into a issue with my A4 (still puzzled), there's parts where the starter spins everything then gets stuck and just spins freely.

I've checked the timing chain, the belt in front, and I'm able to spin it to a certain spot and then sticks like it gets jammed by something. The Chain and the belt look like they are intact, just can't get it to spin on certain spots, I can spit it the other direction and then rotate it forward and it does fine, then a few more turns and then it gets jammed again.

I have one Code being thrown P1338 - Camshaft position sensor, I took the sensor off and looked at it, doesn't seem like there's anything wrong with it.

So I'm stumped:
- I thought it was the starter (spun with out spinning the engine) - was wrong
- I thought it was the chain that broke - was wrong that too
- I checked everything else and still not sure what would cause it to just get stuck when spinning.

Any advice, If push comes to shove, Dealership time (arrrgggggg)

 

Only thing I can think is that you jumped timing and you are hitting the valves

 

P1338 - Camshaft position sensor

either your sensor needs replacing, or its working and you jumped timing.