Hi. I just bought my Audi a few months ago, and love it. However, I have one major problem right now.

The car will not start. I am a good mechanic, and know cars pretty well, but this one has me baffled.

Battery is good. It rained like hell for a couple of days, but has since been dry. The car has no ODBC codes showing in the computer. The car will not start at all, no movement, no initial try to move. So I know that there is no issue with the battery, and the starter is not jammed. Tried to start the car in Park and in Neutral, with no change.

I hear a whine in the center rear of the engine, and hear two clicks under the windshield washer fluid reservoir, to the driver side of the engine.

I am thinking relay? So where is the starter relay?

if not that, does anyone have an idea?

Totally at a loss and need help here. Can't afford dealer labor prices for what is probably a cheap and easy fix.

Thanks for troubleshooting or repair advice!

Ed

2003 Audi A4 Cabriolet

 

Remove the starter and have it tested at Advance Auto or Autozone for free. The solenoid for the starter is part of the starter itself. Be sure to disconnect the positive lead off the battery and make sure you have the code for the radio to reactivate it once you get the battery connected back up. Also while you're taking the starter to have it tested, take the battery and make sure it's pumping out enough juice to make sure.

 

I have the Chiltons for my car, and have the new starter. If I have to go trough this much pain to get to the starter, figured I might as well as replace it, and Amazon had a sale for $70.

I cannot figure out the belt tensioner on this thing. There is no cast square visible to use a wrench on to loosen the belt.

Also, once I have the belt off, can't see how to get the alternator out through the small opening between the frame and the oil pan.

Anyone have any tips for getting the belt off and alternator out?

I have added pics of what I see of the belt tensioner. Just can't see how to operate it. there is a flat piece of metal sticking out the bottom, and it is sharp. not sure of there used to be something else attached to it?

Thanks for any inputs!

Ed

 

See if this helps.