I have a manual'98 A4 2.8 quattro. The ignition switch failed which fried the starter. It is a joke that Audi the manufacturer has recalled only the '96 and '97 models when clearly the '98 has the same damn problem. My '98 was manufactured in May '97 and I'm told by Audi that the '97 models were being manufactured through June '97. What a coincidence. No doubt my mechanic tells me that the ignition switch is definitely defective which caused the starter to go to dust. I think I will bring it up with the traffic safety board as you know AOA won't do squat.

Anyway, the total damage is over $1,000. I'm told by my mechanic that the ignition switch goes for $70 with 3.5 hours labor for a total of $375. A brand new starter will be $460 with 2.5 hours labor for a total of $660. Dealer tells me that the switch is $80 but only takes 2 hours for a total of $260 and a rebuilt starter is $375 with 5 hours labor since it is a manual transmission, total of $825. All in all, my mechanic and the dealer are about the same (just over $1000 total)with very diff prices for each. The dealer also tells me that his price is for a rebuilt starter when my mechanic says he'll get me a brand new one. Dealer says a brand new starter is over $1000 for the part and it is also extremely rare that he has ever replaced one.

Any thoughts? Who should I believe and how do I get any satisfaction from AOA?

 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has published a recall affecting model year 1996-1997 Audi A4 automobiles. This recall affects models that were manufactured between October 1995 and August 1997.

On certain passenger vehicles, the plastic ignition switch housing can fracture at the return spring anchor point. Fracture of the housing could cause the return spring force to be insufficient to return the ignition key to the running position after starting the engine. This condition causes electrical accessories such as windshield wipers and headlights to become inoperative.

NTSB doesnt make a disctinction between 97's and "early" 98s (Mine is manufactured april 97) but is technically a 98. NTSB, and AoA simply go by manufacture date. At least the switch portion of the job should be covered by the recall. I have the same ignition switch failure - have to be very careful to bring the key back. But mine IS covered by the recall.

As far as you killing the starter - You didnt notice the horrendus grinding noise? I find it hard to believe that you let it grind itself to death.

Definitely argue the switch though - That part will be covered.

E-mail me if you need more help,
George