Will not start if it is parked for a short period of time

JAMIE_STI

MEMBER
2009 AUDI A3
1.9L
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
110,000 MILES

After a journey if I park for a short period (under one hour) the car will not start and behave as if I have a flat battery (labored tick over) but will start if I jump start it from another vehicle. However, if I leave it parked for a long period of time the it will start perfectly. This means I have to leave it running during fuel up at the petrol station and running for short shop trips.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,117 POSTS

Hi,

The first thing I suggest is to have the battery load tested and the alternator checked. I realize the vehicle starts when cold, but when after being driven, it is hot and the battery, if not being properly recharged by the alternator, can cause this. If the battery is good, it can, to a degree, come back after being slightly drained when given the time.

Here are a couple links that you may find helpful. One other thought, make sure the battery terminals are both clean and tight.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-load-test

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

Do this first and let me know the results. Also, I suspect the starter is good and isn't being affected by heat. If it was, it would do the same thing when jump started and you said it doesn't. That is what is leading me to a bad connection at the battery or something is allowing the battery to get weak.

I will watch for your reply.

Take care,
Joe