I have a 2000 a4 1.8T quattro manual. I bought it used and have always had to push the clutch to the floor to start it. Recently the car wont always start on the first try with the clutch pushed down. I dont get the control panel telling me to push the clutch either. If i just keep trying after 4 to 5 times the car starts. I always have power to the dash. I was wondering if this sounds more like an ignition switch or a clutch pedal switch? Is there a way to tell? And if it is the clutch pedal switch is the a website the shows how to change? Thank you in advance_______Matt

 

Do you have trouble every time you start the car or just on warm starts?

 

Its just been random, but every time its been cold starts

 

Jump the clutch switch and try starting the car. Or test the resistance through the switch.

A more common fault is the ignition switch, but it's easier to test and rule out the clutch switch.

 

I guess how do I know if bypassing the clutch switch fixed the problem if it only happens on occasion? If it is the clutch pedal switch does anyone have a part # for one on a 2000 A4 1.8TQ?-------------thanks again

 

Tweaked---excuse my ignorance but how do I jump the clutch switch? I went under the dash today and there is 2 plunger type switches. Thank you

 

Ah, don't worry, it's not ignorance, asking is how you learn, I ask a lot of questions! There are two switches on the pedal, one for the cruise control, the other for the starter circuit IIRC. To jump the switch, pull off the connector to the one in the starter circuit and jump the connector terminals to each other with a small wire (NOT a paper clip!). When you start the car, be sure the car is NOT in gear!

Which one is in the starter circuit? Er, I can't find my wiring diagrams! Unplug one at a time and try to start the car. The one that is in the starter circuit won't allow the car to start when it's unplugged (and not jumped).

I'm still betting on the ignition switch if it's random, but you can at least eliminate suspicion of the clutch switch. Good luck!

While I'm thinking of it, have you checked your battery cables and terminals for corrosion? Usually that's a problem under hot starts, but it's also worth checking.

P.S. If you can't figure out which switch it is, I'll check mine tomorrow and snap a pic if I get a chance.

 

Thank you Tweaked for all the info. I jumped the plunger that opens when the clutch is intially pressed and nothing happened ( I'm assuming this is the cruise control). The other plunger is activiated when the clutch bottoms out and is a little harder to get at. It has four wires going to it so I dont know exactly how to jump it. I also ordered an ignition switch. Cant hurt to replace(only $20). If you have the time a picture and description would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again

 

No prob. Yes, I believe the switch at the bottom of the pedal is for starting (a.k.a.: clutch interlock switch). I can't find my wiring diagrams and Autozone's website doen't have any posted for Audi. If the switch is only 20 bucks, switching it out can't hurt, at least you'll have eliminated it as a possibility. I also haven't gotten a chance to really play with my car this week. I have parts sitting on my toolbox...

Keep us posted with your results.