davyk3

I think I might have read something to this regard previously, but I couldn't find it in a quick search.

This might actually be normal for some/our cars but I have never experienced with any other car so I am getting worried.

So, when I turn the key to start the engine after being in the garage for a while, and especially in colder weather, I have to turn the key and hold it for a bit before the ignition turns on. However, if I drove the S4 for say 30 minutes, went in the store come back while the engine is still warm, the ignition turns on immediately.

What I am worried about is that it actually takes too long to turn on after being idle. Even in warm summer days, 4 hours after the last drive, the ignition is not easy to turn on.

Any ideas or similar situations?

S4 111

My car would start erratically. Turned the key and nothing happened. Then turned it and the car started. Happened mostly in the morning when car was cold. Service said it was a dead cell in the battery. They replaced the battery and that cured the problem. Hope this helps.

davyk3

how do you know if there is a dead cell in the battery, was this covered under warranty?

TXurS6

It was the starter solenoid on my 2004. Don't hold the key in the start position too long. If the battery is good and the starter is bad, you could melt the wires or connections between the battery and starter. Fire is bad, m'kay?

davyk3

I'm guessing you needed a new starter solenoid - how much in terms of money and time?

S4Johnson

Same exact thing in my 04 S4. Starter replace under warranty. All good now.

S4 111

I had the exact same symptoms as you did. I could not believe it was the battery. I thought for sure it was starter. Dealer tested battery and came back with dead cell. They replaced the battery under warranty.
I would look after it right away, you dont want it to die completely on you.

Miah_S4Avant

2nd....starter replaced. All good now

TXurS6

I got it back within a day. Not sure how long it actually took to replace the starter.

davyk3

usually they ask me to duplicate the problem, but if I drive there, the engine would be warm and the car would start fine. Also, I don't want to leave it there overnight just to show them there is a problem.