My 2003 Audi A4 Avant 1.8T seems to be starting then stalling immediately. In the past this was a rare occurrence but lately it seems to be happening with much greater frequency. The immobilizer warning light on the dashboard (car with a key) flashes when this happens. I've scanned the car for codes but after searching the forums for a while I've noticed this phenomenon could symptomatic of either a bad read on the key or a bad key reader. I'm using the same factory key I've used for years and I've also tried my spare. One tip I found was to turn the key to the on position, wait for the immobilizer light to go off, and then start the car. I haven't tried this yet but will. I just changed the front O2 sensor (not related, I think) and reset the codes so I'll see what comes back but in the meantime I was wondering if anyone had experience with this type of problem.

 

Yes I'm having the same problem now & again, its pain! Any ideas anyone?

 

I just took my 2003 A4 1.8T to the dealer for this immobilizer issue. Long story short, it was a nightmare, which is still not fixed.

They had to replace the immobilizer sensor as well as the ignition lock housing (which came with two new keys). They couldn't get the new keys to program to the car, so they ended up putting all of my original (barely working) parts back in and charged me $300 for labor.

I don't know what to do...