car symbol with key underneath keeps flashing

[TDI]

car starts but cuts out in seconds, the car symbol with key underneath keeps flashing after it cuts out. looked at the manual and it states this is the immobiliser icon, but the doors open with the remote and car starts, i thought that if it was the immobiliser it wouldn't allow for the car to start at all. am i looking at something thats going to be expensive to fix? anyone had this happen to them?

Cheers,
K

 

[sprout99]

it will start and run with whatever fuel is in line but won't allow anymore

you need to get key / ecu checked at stealer

 

[spuddie007]

Had this when my ECU failed mate, car would recognise the keys to unlock and start the engine, but the immobiliser doesn't recognise the key and then cuts the engine out.

Could be your ECU or your keys themselves. Have you tried starting with the master key (the thick black key with red icons on it?)??

 

[S3_MCD]

I would guess at the imobiliser?

 

[TDI]

Had this when my ECU failed mate, car would recognise the keys to unlock and start the engine, but the immobiliser doesn't recognise the key and then cuts the engine out.

Could be your ECU or your keys themselves. Have you tried starting with the master key (the thick black key with red icons on it?)??

I started the car with the master (black key) what does this mean the key needs replacing? i had the key programmed a year ago as the car doors wouldn't open and the other remote is broken snapped in half.

cheers Spuddie007

 

[rodenal]

Give the bottom of your steering cowling a bang when the key's out - put it back in you'll prob find the icon is jus tsolid and you can start and run the car.

Happens alot with these cars can be the wiring, the key, or the immobiliser itself.

 

[AndyMac]

Move the steering column up and down, this usually works as the wiring from the reader coil can get interference from other wires close by.

 

[spuddie007]

Or get your keys checked by the stealers???

If it starts with the master key, then I would say your keys have somehow 'lost' their coding and are nor not recognised by the ecu/immobiliser. I paid £170 for the privelage but that's a long story I'm going to start again.

Glad I could help, god knows I've learnt a lot on here and shall still visit even when the S3 goes next month