Audi SQ8 Ignition Mystery: Key Cranks But Won't Start

I had a nearly identical starting issue with my 2020 Audi SQ7, and can share my experience with car electronics troubleshooting. After experiencing inconsistent behavior when turning the key, I initially thought it was an ignition switch problem too. The symptoms matched yours exactly, sometimes normal starts, sometimes just cranking, and occasional rough running before stalling. The workshop diagnostic revealed a blown fuse in the main ignition circuit. What seemed like a complex engine start problem was actually quite simple. The repair cost was 52 Euro, which covered the fuse replacement and diagnostic time. Before suggesting this might be your exact issue, it would help to know: Are you getting any clicking sounds when you turn the key? Does the engine crank consistently with each key turn attempt? Have you noticed any electrical issues with other systems? Has your battery been tested recently? These details would help determine if youre dealing with the same fuse problem or potentially something else in the ignition system.

Mileage: 186672 KM, last service September 2023 Thanks for the detailed suggestions regarding the car ignition problems. I hear a consistent clicking sound when turning the key, and the engine cranks every time. All other car electronics work normally. The battery was tested during my last service and tested fine. After reading about similar cases, I took it to the workshop yesterday. The technician found corroded contacts in the ignition switch assembly, which caused intermittent connection issues. Full repair with parts and labor came to 380 Euro. The car starts perfectly now and the engine runs smoothly. For others facing similar starting issues, having the ignition switch contacts checked early can prevent more expensive repairs later.

Glad you got it sorted! Your diagnosis matches what I learned during my SQ7 troubles. While my initial fuse issue was simpler, I actually had a similar ignition switch problem about 6 months later showing the exact same symptoms, clicking sound with key turn and inconsistent starts. The corroded contacts in the ignition switch assembly seem to be a common weak point in these models after high mileage. My repair bill was slightly higher at 420 Euro, but like yours, it completely resolved the starting issues and rough engine running. The consistent clicking sound with each key turn is often a telltale sign pointing to ignition switch problems rather than ignition coil or other engine management issues. When the dashboard lights work normally but starting is inconsistent, its usually related to the switch contacts. Good call on getting it checked early. On my SQ7, waiting longer might have led to complete switch failure and potentially being stranded somewhere. These ignition system issues are definitely worth addressing at the first signs of trouble.

Thanks to everyone who contributed insights about the car ignition problems. Really appreciate learning about the various causes of starting issues in these models. My corroded ignition switch repair at 380 Euro was definitely worth it to prevent future headaches. The clicking sound during key turns combined with normal dashboard lights ended up being the key diagnostic clues. For anyone else experiencing similar starting troubles with high-mileage vehicles, definitely have the ignition switch contacts inspected early. The symptoms can be confusing, sometimes normal starts, sometimes just cranking, occasional rough running. But catching these car electronics issues early prevents more costly repairs and potential breakdowns. The car starts perfectly now after the fix. Nice to know both the fuse and switch contact issues are relatively straightforward repairs when diagnosed correctly. Thanks again for helping me understand the likely causes and typical repair costs for these starting problems.