1996 Audi A4 engine turns does not start

Hi there,

Thank you for the donation,

As there are a number of components that can cause loss of ignition we first must run a diagnostic test to try and determine the exact cause as just bolting on new parts can be costly waste of time, so the first thing that should be done is to have a diagnostic scan done as this will identify any unresolved fault codes that can indicate a failed engine management component, I would be looking for a fault with the crank angle sensor or the cam angle sensor as these can both be the reference signal for the ignition system, next I would be testing the coil, I can give you the test procedure for the crank, cam sensors and the coil, but you will need some test equipment and an understanding of automotive electrics, if in any doubt your service center can assist you here.
Let me know which way you wish to proceed, but the important thing is get a scan done first.

Mark (mhpautos)

HI there,

As I am Australia, I am not sure what you have available to you there, but as here, you will have to make sure that what ever scanner you get is compatible with your European car, many generic scanners will only do basic tests, manufactures are making it harder and harder to access this information as they want to keep the repairs in house, so as a result we in the trade muse invest considerable $$$ on top range scanners and these won't always work, my work shop scanner is work in the order of $15K with all the interfaces, but there are still cars I can read, it so frustratiog, so basically do some home work of just pay a dealer to do the scan and get a report print out of codes and system faults.

Mark (mhpautos)

Hi, I will send something when I get on Mitchell this evening.

Mark

Testing coil.
see text & pics for coil test.

Did you get a scan done?

mark

Hi Rick,

That will be good, hope you get some results soon.

Mark

Hi Rick,

The cam sensor will be a magnetic sensor, it is the movement of the cam gear teeth(am thinking its the same with Audi) that alters the magnetic field or the sensor inducing a pulse signal to the ecu, this is normally tested with an engine oscilloscope, but if the magnet is very weak it wont pulse correctly, ok I know your next question, how strong should it be? Well it wont snap onto a metal surface, but there should be some resistance felt when something metallic is offered up. Can you post the P code you got Pxxxx should be 4 digits.

Mark (mhpautos)