So the car is stored for winter, i start it every 2-3 weeks without problems except i always have to jump it with my jumpbox. Today i jumped it and started up like always ran for about 2 min then just shut down. No hesitation or anything just like somebody had turned it off, now it wont restart and is making some clicking behind the steering column (FUSE PANEL) when the key is turned over and also sounds like the fuel pump is turning on and off as this clinking continues... (relay maybe)ANY IDEAS? my car is now in the street and have to get back into the yard as i cant park in the street yet

I left the audi jumped onto my other car running for over an hour and still nothing... all lights on the dash light up bright and everything but still hear the relay clicking and wont fire up... Could a bad relay do this clicking or could it still be the battery?

BTW car is a 99.5 A4 1.8tqm

 

The clicking you're hearing is probably a relay. It sounds to me like your battery doesn't want to hold a charge. I'd pull the battery and take it to O'reilly's, Napa, AutoZone, or wherever and have them test it (unless you or someone you know has a battery tester).

 

but wouldnt it still start from the jumpbox or jumper cables? and why would it of stalled?

 

does your interior lights turn on when you turn the key? also the relay could be the fuel pump relay. no matter how much charge you have, no fuel = no start lol. the click might be the starter though, make sure you're sure it's coming from under the steering wheel

 

yes interior lights come on and i can actually put my finger on the relay clicking behind the fuses and feel it clicking

 

bump ???

 

could be a relay, could be ignition switch IMO. Swap some relays around (label them first so you know which one went where originally) and see if the problem moves with them.

 

bro first thing you need to do is pull your battery cables off and clean them with a baking soda/water mix, then scrub them with a wire brush or some sand paper. dont forget to scrub the battery terminals too. you d be amazed..thats probably your problem. its free and worth a shot. i have an extra fuel pump relay, its brand new if you re interested paid $45 for it...sell it for half.

 

btw, if your fuel pump isnt getting enough current from the battery it could cause your relay to click, click, click, hence the reason you should clean your terminals first..

 

ok thanks guys, REALLY appreciate it... Will be working on it on sunday and will keep you all updated