tcs3675@aol.com

I have Audi 2006 A6 Avant. Was fine, came out of work last week turned the key nothing (but MMI and radio and lights all worked). Called the tow co. flat bed driver couldn't release transmission. Called the dealer was told nothing you can do but drag it onto the flat bed. Looked online quick and found the release information thats located under the ashtray. Worked perfect. Hit the release and put the car in neutral and rolled it onto truck. Now the dealer is saying I need a new battery and a new steering column, $2700.
My question is what I read about that transponder going bad is my key should have been stuck in the ignition and it shouldn't have shifted (even w the release) into neutral. So now Im thinking maybe its just a bad battery and or a bad ignition switch. Does anyone now for sure if the transponder is bad does it freeze everything and "lock" the key in the ignition? As I was able to take the key in and out, and I was able to shift into neutral (using the release under the ashtray). Any info would be very much appreciated.

raj99

Why not simply try the replacement battery route as step 1. If the issue persists with the steering column, then escalate and replace. But in the meantime read through some of the following threads:

https://www.audiworld.com/forums/a6-...heory-2893097/
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/a6-...umber-2889309/
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/a6-...start-2878677/
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/a6-...-park-2878878/

Good luck and let us know what you decide to do.

KevinS2

ive got a steering column issue too, my radio has to be turned on manually and none of my buttons and switches work either, anybody have an idea on what else it could be?

raj99

Read above...check the battery first and replace it if over 6 years old or underpowered.