I have a 2001 Audi A4 2.8 Quattro. Last night I went to drive home and when I put the key in the door lock, it just spun and spun. I ended up getting into the car through the trunk and unlocking it. I only bought the car a couple months ago and just have the valet key. As soon as I tried to start the car it started honking and flashing the lights. The only thing I could do to get them to stop was to disconnect the battery. What do I do? I am pretty handy and am confident I can fix whatever needs to be fixed. I just dont know what exactly to start with. Im assuming its something with the lock cylinder. Any ideas? Do I need to bite the bullet and get the key with remote? Any advice or ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

 

You triggered the alarm by not unlocking one of the doors. Sounds like the lock cylinder is broken. Unlock from the passenger side (to disable the alarm) and then get in on the driver side.

 

There is only a lock on the driver side door for this car. So until I fix it, I cannot turn off the alarm. I have disconnected the battery for now.

 

Just a question, why would you buy a car with only the Valet key?

 

So you wouldn't buy a car from a used dealer even if it was a good deal just because it only had the valet key?

Sure, it was a negative but definitely not a reason to not buy a car.

 

Honestly, No I probably wouldn't. But that's just me I guess

 

Especially on a car that has a factory alarm and you need the Key Fob to disable it

 

I have a extra 3 button uncut remote. Check to see if it's compatible pm me if you want it.

 

JoBunny: Even if I had the key fob, my lock would still be broken...and I would still need to fix it... which is the reason for this thread. Thanks for letting us know what you will and will not do when buying a new car.

Audiltr: Thanks for the offer. I appreciate it. I have already ordered a new blank key and fob so i'm all set as far as that is concerned.

If anyone has any advice about fixing the lock or ideas about what might be the problem, please let me know. Thanks

 

I would try taking off the door panel ( very simple ) to access the door handle and go from there