Hi I have a 2000 model Audi A4, every now and then it will start and then die immediately. I turn the key off, hit the drivers kick panel a few times and then it will start and run fine. I had the idea in my head that it could be the fuel pump relay (272), but my understanding is that if the relay wasn't working, it wouldnt start at all. Any help would be much appreciated!

 

Does it run fine once warm? How does it idle? Do you have Vag Com?
More importantly, why are you beating the interior trim?

 

No vag com. As for tapping the dash, my thinking was if it was a sticky relay, tapping the kickpanel would help free it. Runs absolutely perfect cold and warm, is an intermittent issue only when starting. I put key to start position, winds over and starts perfect, release starter > key to on position, revs up as per normal and then cuts out.

 

This is a difficult one to tackle without more info. It could be (but more thank likely isn't) related to the fuel delivery system. I think you would see problems arise after startup.

It's probably the Coolant temp sensor, MAF, or a vacuum issue...

My money is on the coolant temp sensor.