Hey Guys,

I'm new to Audi's (not VWs - have a Touareg).

Just bought the car, here's the scenario:

1997 A4 Quattro 2.8L 5spd
163000 miles

Check engine light came on, multiple mis-fires. I changed spark plugs and wires, ran fine.

Next day it died while driving then started again while in gear doing 50 MPH.

Parked it and it wouldn't start.

Towed it home, now there's no charge on the battery and starter is bad.

My initial thoughts on diagnosis:

• Alternator Bad
• Starter Bad
• Ignition Coil

What else could cause those issues?

Thanks for your help.

 

My brother has the same issue on his 1997 2.8.
He checked everything! Replaces coil pack, plugs, wires, starter, battery
Only explanation I can guess on your car is ICM (ignition control module)

 

After making those changes on your brother's car, did it fix the problem?

I found why my charge was bad, the previous owner broke off the bottom bolt that holds the alternator in place, causing the tension on the alternator to be very weak = no charge.

Starter was also bad.

I've put it back together and will start it tomorrow. Hopefully it will turn-over.

Do you know when the battery is disconnected and then reconnected if I need a Vagcom for any reason?

 

You don't need vagcom. Just turn the key on without starting the engine and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the TPS to set itself up.

 

Thank you for this note of wisdom. I did exactly that and it started.

Car is running great after all of the minor adjustments I made in one week.

For now, everything seems to be working just fine. Thanks everyone for your help!