My 2009 A4 2.0T started running rough at idle one day, then the following day would not start. When I try to start, I can hear the starter engage for one 'crank', then it stops. It sounds strong, so I don't think the battery is the issue. Imagine a traditional ignition where you turn the key all the way forward to start - it's exactly like you turned the key to start and back right away. Starter cranks once, then cuts out before the engine starts.

I had it taken to a local mechanic who specializes in German cars, and after looking at it decided that he didn't want to attempt to work on it. He said something about this engine being beyond his ability/desire to tackle.

It has 140K miles on it and I'm debating on whether I even bring it to the dealer or not. Our plan was to get rid of it before it started costing us lots of money in repairs. With the age and miles it's only worth about $4-5k and a major engine repair at the dealer could easily go that high, I think.

Anybody experience anything similar? What was the outcome? Any feedback would be appreciated.

 

Any codes? Check engine light on? Possibly slipped timing (very expensive) or bad starter
(less expensive) or bad battery(least expensive). What state are you in?