Audi A2 Starting Problems Point to Faulty Switch

As someone with some car repair experience, I faced a very similar issue with my 2003 Audi A3 1.6. Initially, I also thought it was the car ignition system, but after taking it to a workshop, the problem turned out to be much simpler. The symptoms were identical, inconsistent starting behavior when turning the ignition key, rough running, and unusual shutdowns. The mechanic found that a blown fuse in the main ignition circuit was causing these issues. The faulty fuse was interrupting power flow to critical ignition components. The repair was straightforward, replacing the defective fuse restored proper function to the ignition coil and other starting components. Total cost was 52 Euro, mostly for diagnostic time since the fuse replacement itself was minor. However, to give more specific advice about your case, could you share: Are there any warning lights on the dashboard? Does the engine crank normally when you turn the key? Have you noticed any electrical issues with other systems? When was the last time you had ignition system maintenance? These details would help determine if your issue is similar or potentially something different.

I had my last service done at 115000 KM and the mechanic should have logged this issue. The check engine light comes on when the engine shuts off, but not during normal operation. The starter motor sounds normal when turning the key. I have taken good care of the electrical system and had no issues until now. Could the fault code help identify if its indeed the ignition switch causing these problems?

Actually, based on these new details, I'm less convinced it's an ignition switch issue in your case. When my A3 had similar symptoms, I first checked the fault codes which pointed toward fuel delivery problems rather than an ignition switch fault. The normal starter motor sound when you turn the key suggests the starting circuit is working properly. The intermittent check engine light, combined with rough running and stalling, often indicates fuel system problems, which matches what I discovered with my car. The actual culprit in my case turned out to be a failing fuel pump relay, not the fuse as initially diagnosed. The symptoms were nearly identical: Unusual stalling, Rough running, Check engine light during shutdown, Normal cranking with key turn The relay replacement cost 85 Euro including diagnostic time. Consider having the fuel system pressure tested, this helped identify my issue quickly. The fault codes would definitely help narrow down the cause, especially since the check engine light is triggering during shutoffs. The dashboard light pattern you described is particularly telling, as it matches the behavior I experienced before finding the real problem. Would you be able to get the specific fault codes read? This could confirm if you're dealing with a similar fuel system issue rather than an ignition switch problem.

I appreciate everyone's input. I will get the fault codes read first thing tomorrow and have the fuel system pressure tested as suggested. The symptoms described with the fuel pump relay issue match my situation perfectly, especially the normal starter motor operation when I turn the key but then having those unusual shutoffs. Knowing the repair might only cost around 85 Euro is also reassuring, I was worried this could be a much more expensive fix with the car electronics. I will check all the dashboard lights again during startup and note any patterns. If the fault codes point to fuel delivery problems rather than an ignition switch or starting issue, at least I know what to expect. Will update once I have more information from the diagnostic tests.