Audi a4 1.8t 2001 (b5) Help! Doesn`t start
 

I just bought a a4 1.8t 2001 (b5). It`s now at the dealer and they can`t find an error. It`s not starting (no turn over) trip computer doesn`t come up and there are no dash board lights. The stereo works, all the lights work and the alarm works.
Any idea`s on where to start?


P.S. There is a red switch in the drivers side fuse box, don`t know what it is and the dealer asked what it is. Does anyone know?

Re: Audi a4 1.8t 2001 (b5) Help! Doesn`t start
 

The red switch could be a killswitch. Either an independent one or one for an aftermarket car starter/alarm system. For car starters they are placed there so the car does not start on its own when servicing under the hood....but in reality the battery should always be disconnected anyways when sticking your hands near fan belts :D

If it is a killswitch, the in is just a matter of it being switched in the right direction in order to start your car. Basically when you turn the key in the ignition everything should light up, the radio should still work, all electronics should work, a lot of aftermarket alarm systems have these. But most aftermarkets have a sequence to work in. Some being that you have to turn the key until just before "Ignition", then press the deactivate button on your alarms remote, and then starting the car. It is also possible that whatever has been installed in your car simply stopped working, in which case you might want to consider ripping out any the alarm or car starter and getting your wires soldered back to a stock configuration.

Killswitches are cheap alternatives to alarm systems because you have to know where the switch is. Sometimes they are wired to flashers or hazard lights. But in reality can be wired to just about anything. Perhaps the previous owner could give you information on whether any electronic deterents were installed on the car.

Thats my take on it. But honestly could be anything. Hope it helps

Terraflata

Re: Audi a4 1.8t 2001 (b5) Help! Doesn`t start
 

Thank you terraflata, it turns out that was exactly what it was, so now it`s rewired back to orig. They did good though, did an inspection too. Now to deal with other suspected problems ;)
Since you are located in Montreal, do you have any tips for a reliable and reasonably priced Audi repair guy ?

Re: Audi a4 1.8t 2001 (b5) Help! Doesn`t start
 

I've only ever brought my Audi to one guy. He lives near me, he speaks english, and he only works on VW's and Audi's. He does great work and I don't feel like I have been charged a lot for the work he has done. But nonetheless I am trying to do as much work as possible on my car as possible, which includes the coming months when I have to change my timing belt, and clutch.

The place I have gone to is called Atelier Vereggen. 505 Rue Le Breton, Longueuil, Quebec, J4G 1R9. To give you an idea of how much he has charged me for work.

I had my V-belt changed, my thermostat, and the housing, also a coolant flush, and it cost me 170$.

Another time I had my oil and filter changed, my exhaust cut in two and coupled the RIGHT way (The last owner welded the exhaust together making servicing the vehicle difficult), and he took my catalytic converter and welded it back together (The original reason I went in). That cost me 450$

I found this garage because I change windshields for them from time to time.
You could also go to VAG Motorsport. I know they are very well know to do good work. But I cannot quote you on prices.

My friend goes to a guy named Audi John, and apparently he is amazing....but I havent met him yet. And I havent had the need to get my car serviced yet. I'll try and get his number or an address.

I found the prices I got were reasonable. But I have been doing as much research into my car as possible to avoid paying someone for something I could do myself. Especially in this day and age where the internet is such a vast resource for information and DIY's. You might want to consider doing the same, as a lot of problems can be dealt with easily, and avoid having to pay money. With all the money you save, it gives more money to make your car the way you want.

Terraflata