I drove my sister's car (2004 A4 Cabriolet w/ approx 77K miles) the other week and in my opinion, whenever you start from a stoplight, the car seems to hesitate a long time (1-2secs) before proceeding. It almost feels like you have the parking brake on and then release it while stepping on the gas. I do know she had a problem with the trans (auto w/ triptronic)when she first purchased the vehicle and it needed to have an updated version of the trans "software" installed which required pulling the trans out. After that, she had no more problems with the flashing shift indicator lights and according to her, it has done the hestitation routine ever since.

I have no idea if the same shop changed the trans fluid and/or filter, but is what I'm describing normal for these cars or is there something really out of whack or needing cleaning that should be done immediately? I was thinking I would at a minimum check the trans fluid level and color to make sure it is not low or smells burnt. Then, I thought about cleaning the entire intake path, replacing the pvc valve and then checking the spark plugs and coil connections. Besides that, I don't know much about these models.

If anyone is experiencing this on their car and has solved it, please let me know. If this is just how these cars drive, then I guess she will have to live with it. Really annoying to drive it this way if you ask me.

Thanks all.

Ted, Chicago

 

The car is fwd right?

 

You are correct. Any suggestions?

 

I have quattro, but every time I drove a cvt loaner car they always did that. It's just the way that transmission is.

 

Wow, thanks for the response and info. I am still going to give her car a minor tune up and clean out the intake path along with the MAF sensor and TB plates. Will also check the trans fluid to make sure it is in good condition.

Will keep you posted if I discover any significant changes.

Ted