Audi A7 Mysteriously Dies: Key Issue Behind Shutdowns

I had a similar issue with my 2016 Audi A5, and as someone with some hands-on repair experience, I can share what worked for me. The symptoms match exactly what I experienced, the key turn without response and unusual shutoffs. After checking several potential causes, it turned out to be a blown fuse in the ignition circuit. When the workshop tested it, they found the fuse was intermittently failing, causing those unusual starting issues. The fix was straightforward, replacing the faulty fuse and checking the ignition circuit. Total cost was 52 Euro, including diagnostic time. Since the repair, the starting issue never came back. However, these symptoms could have multiple causes. Before jumping to conclusions, could you share: 1. Any error codes showing up? 2. When was your last battery replacement? 3. Does the issue happen more often in wet weather? 4. Do you hear any clicking sound when turning the ignition key? This information would help narrow down if your issue is similar to what I experienced or if it might be related to the starter motor or other components. Quick tip: check your fuse box first, its often overlooked but can save you time and money.

Last service done at 162000 KM. Your description matches my problem almost exactly. The starting issues began around 2000 KM ago. The workshop checked and found no error codes in the system. The ignition key turns smoothly but the starter motor remains silent, no clicking sound at all. The battery is brand new, replaced just last month hoping it would solve the issue. Weather doesnt seem to affect it. My mechanic suggested checking the starter motor and ignition coil, but wanted to get more opinions before spending money on parts that might not fix the issue. The unusual shutoffs are particularly concerning since they happen while driving.

Thanks for those details. Since my A5 had similar symptoms, this is giving me déjà vu. While my issue was solved with the fuse replacement, your case sounds more complex, especially with the silent starter motor and the shutoffs while driving. After we fixed the fuse in my car, we actually discovered a failing starter motor solenoid was the root cause of the fuse problems. The lack of clicking sound when you turn the key points strongly toward a starter motor issue, just like what I experienced in the later stages. The starting issue combined with unusual engine shutoffs often indicates an electrical problem affecting both the starter system and engine management. In my case, the faulty solenoid was causing voltage drops that affected multiple systems. Based on my repair experience, I would suggest: 1. Have the starter motor tested, particularly the solenoid 2. Check the ignition switch wiring for loose connections 3. Test the voltage at the starter when attempting to start The repair for my starter motor ended up costing 380 Euro, but it resolved both the starting issues and the unusual shutoffs completely. Car electronics can be tricky, but starting problems usually leave clear diagnostic trails once you know where to look. Consider getting the starter motor checked first since all signs point that direction, especially the complete silence when turning the key.

Thank you for providing those repair suggestions. After considering your experience, I agree the starter motor needs checking, especially since my symptoms match your case so closely. The complete silence during key turn definitely seems concerning, and knowing your repair cost helps me budget for what might be coming. Given the unusual shutoffs and the fact that my car electronics are showing these symptoms, I will ask my mechanic to test the starter motor and solenoid first. The ignition coil and ignition switch wiring should probably be checked too, since these issues are happening while driving. Your experience is particularly helpful since you dealt with both the starting problems and engine shutoffs. I will call my mechanic tomorrow to schedule these specific tests. The 380 Euro repair cost sounds reasonable if it fixes both issues like it did in your case. The lack of engine start response to key turns is getting really frustrating, so I need to get this resolved soon. Thanks again for sharing your detailed fix, really helps narrow down where to start looking.