Ok, so I made a thread a while ago about my 2000 a4 1.8t failing to start. Two mechanics claim the battery, alternator and starter are fine, but neither can find the problem.

Well just now I go to start it and as I turn the key, it doesn't do anything at all. And the strange part is that I can turn the key around as many times as I want... its not engaging or whatever. What is going on here?

 

I had a similar problem with my ignition about 3 years ago. The ignition that Audi put in A4s was actually recalled at some point because the internals fail and sometimes the ignition won't work or in my case the key didn't return from the start position so it kept trying to start and destroyed my starter. Audi actually paid for all of this which was nice since the part under recall did destroy my starter.

When you put the key in do any of the other electronics work? Do you have the beeping sound if you put your key in the ignition and open the door? Sutpid question but do your lights turn on?

 

Sounds like you need a new key cylinder. Im surprised no mechanic said that if you key just spins around in the cylinder...

 

All the electronics work, and the lights turn on still.

Could this be the reason my car failed to start the first 2 times?

 

Yeah, definetly sounds like the issue, if your key is spinning in it now, it could have gotten worse.. Thats where youd have to start anyway, you cant diagnose much else if you dont fix the key cylinder since the key is spinning. I would be that will fix the starting issue, it would be a pretty big coincidence if it didnt.

 

Yea, I hope it solves all the issues. Any idea on what I'm looking to pay for this fix? I tried and failed at looking it up.

 

Not sure, because there is the labor to have it cut for your key or w/e... Unless it would come with a new key.. Im not sure with that maybe someone will chime in.

 

Thanks Dallas. This does sound like it will be a pain in the *** to have fixed. I tried calling my mechanic, but they wont pick up..

Edit: My mechanic agrees it is most likely the key cylinder or lock as he called it. I hope that all it is... too bad he couldn't estimate the price.