mission

I changed the plugs which were somewhat carboned up. The engine crank again, but would not start. I let it sit for a whil and went back to give it another shot. This time the engines cranked, turned over, but wouldn't start. I immediately tried again, but it would only crank. Close, but still no resolution. I read something about an immobilizer...Does anyone know if the 97 A8 is equipped with one? If so...could this be a problem?

PaulW

If the car turns over, starts, but doesn't stay running once the key is turned to the "run" position from "start", it can be the immobilizer.

The 97 had a much simplier system, try inserting the key into the driver's door, lock it and unlock it manually, I think that's what tells the system that the correct person is using it.

pw

mission

Thanks PaulW for all your help. When I saw some previous posts, I thought there may be some safety feature activated that may be preventing the engine from starting. It's just so odd that there was absolutly no sign of any problems when the car was parked. Then just ten minutes later it cranks strong, but won't turn over. This is completely baffling and frustrating.

AgA8

My understanding is that the immobilizer system didn't come along until at least the 2002 model year.

PaulW

But the 97 to 99 cars have a simplier system. For example, if the car is locked and it is broken into without using a key fob or a key in the door, it won't start. Audi has that system for a long time.

It does not have the key chip immobilizer system on the older car.

cuatrokoop

starting...It happens randomly. Just locking/unlocking will not reset it at that point, IIRC.