New to me 2005 S4 B6 6spd - Immobilizer issue?

[Night Train]

Hi,

I've done some searching but could not find something related to the issue I'm having.

I put the key in the ignition, wait for the prompt on the dash to press clutch pedal to start, press clutch pedal, turn the ignition . . .. and wait . . . 5 seconds plus . . .

Nothing.

Take key out, repeat 2 or 3 times - sometimes 4 . . .or more. . . .

Then it finally works.

No CELs, no saved codes (I have a X-tools VAG SCANNER but not a Vag Com). I checked for codes in Engine, Immobilizer, Steering Wheel, etc. . . only 2 codes for running rich (Just had Magnaflows installed today??). Nothing obvious on basic scanning of systems.

This starting issue seems to happen randomly but most often after the car has been sitting a few days in the garage. Sometimes even after the car is warmed up and I've only been away for an hour.

I have 2 sets of keys and both seem to have the same intermittent issue between sets.

Is the key wearing out? Is there a battery in the key? Should I actively listen for fuel pump? I don't have the owner's manual so what indicator lights do I look for?

Advice and suggestions are appreciated.

Dave

[jakeoboy67]

a bad starter solenoid would do exactly this,
you turn the key to the "crank" position and nothing happens.

with my car , I could hold the key in the "crank" position for about 20 seconds without any results, when I came back later it cranked perfectly(wasn't like a dead battery or anything)
I've fixed it by replacing the starter itself(the solenoid is attached to it) 190$ later it works flawlessly.

clutch switch could be causing something like what you're describing too, but since the problem is worse if you let the car sit, I'd suspect the starter solenoid.

[Night Train]

Thanks for the suggestion!

Is there anyway to confirm either before throwing parts at it?


This seems to narrow it down considerably.

Dave