1.8T hard to start after short drive

ECT= engine coolant temperature sensor

ECT sensor failure usually results in hard warm starting, like shutting engine off and then very hard to start 30 min later, but possible here.

Hi, This relates to an '85 and '90 Golf (gas engines), though admitedly some distance from an A4 on the family tree, but the symptoms sound similar. If I've left the car outside, then start it up to park it (engine runs maybe 20 seconds), then it's hard starting the engine the next day. Invariably it will star but runs rough until I get it up to regular driving spped after which it drives normally. It seems to be that the engine needs to go through a full cycle (and I haven't pinned down the key components yet,) of fully warming up (ECT?). Also, at least on the '85 golf, the revs have to get above 3000 rpm before something resets (forgot exactly what it is). Perhaps ask the service guy, but in our experience (33 combined years with the 2 VWs), it's something we expect if we've only run the engine a few seconds.

-Tony

-------------------- twong(at)vcn.bc.ca Vancouver, BC Canada

Could be a failed MAF sensor. Have someone check the codes.