dcginc

ok, I've been reading what this might be. Sounds like it could be several things, MAF, coilpacks, etc.. What's the best way to start? obd scanner to look for error codes and then go from there?

any obd scanners that I should consider buying? thanks.

QuiksilverS4

Usually severe misfires will trigger check engine light. Since there are so many things it could be scanning for codes would be best start. Vagcom software from RossTech is great software for using a computer to scan your Audi. I highly recommend it.
There are several forum members across the country that have vagcom. Post a vagcom help message with the area you are in and maybe someone can help you out. In the meantime you can always have it scanned for codes at advance autoparts or other. If codes show up write them down and do a search here.