1.8 20v starting problem

HT leads or dizzy maybe....if you've done the plugs & thats the obvious starting point.

That said, I have done work on a car that does exactly as yours and it was a knackered fuel pressure regulator.

Without looking at/listening to it, its difficult to diagnose. I'm pretty new to the audi scene too so don't have in depth knowledge of common problems.

Hope it gives you a starting point anyway and maybe someone will come along with more intel!

Details are a bit sparse here mate. Is it OK when running and warm? Misfires? Will it start OK if you have driven it and it's still warm? Does it seem down on power?

Likely to be one of two things all the same.

1. No/weak spark.

Not sure if the non turbo 20v has coil pack ignition, rather than a dissy and leads. If coil packs, take the coil out but leave it plugged in. Then turn the engine over. The coils make an audible click as they fire, so do each one of the four in turn and make sure they are all ok (coils common failure). I saw you have changed the plugs already.:thumbsup:

2. No/not enough fuel getting to the injectors.

I'd say this is the more likely - as when you give it a bit of boot when turning over it will start. Possible causes - fuel pump output weak, resulting in weak fuel pressure (unlikely if mileage low and expensive to test). Blocked fuel filter (cheapest option first! - should be done as part of a service anyway but normally isn't). Faulty Fuel Pressure Regulator (easy to change - 2 min job. Not cheap though.) Should be a 3 BAR FPR on your engine I would guess. Pick on up from a scrap yard, eBay, or www.motorsinmotion.co.uk.

You could also take the injectors out in turn to make sure they are all working correctly.

At least it gives you some idea of problems that COULD cause this. I'd guess it's fuel related myself.

Yes actually, now you mention it, sorry, my bad, no dizzy or leads! I only looked at it over the weekend, bl**dy mondays!

I'll leave it to Welly, he knows what he's on about

J3NKO said:

I'll leave it to Welly, he knows what he's on about

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I wouldn't go that far... lol

Ok, well, you SOUND like you know what you're talking lol

Matt-H said:

Hello all,

Wonder if anyone can help me. My audi a3 (1.8 20v non turbo) has a problem starting. The car turns over, but doesnt start. Theres no warning lights on, on the dashboard. I have replaced the spark plugs but still no luck. The only way it will run is with a putting a few revs on as it starts.

It was working until a few days ago without any issues, apart from on a drive last week when I had the (i think) immobiliser light flashing whilst the car was moving but that seems to have stopped flashing now.

Any ideas?

Many thanks!

Matt.

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This is exactly the same problem I am having - is it fine once its been driven for a few miles / up to running temp??

Have had it vag comm with no errors. Getting the coolant sensor/temp sender replaced later this week - will let you know if it does the jobby