Starting the Engine with a Discharged Battery

Starting the vehicle by pushing or towing can be dangerous if the vehicle does not start due to a fault in the ignition system. In this case, unburned mixture may ignite and raise the temperature in the catalytic converter to dangerous levels. If the engine fails to start only because of a discharged battery, these risks do not apply.

Starting the Engine with Another Battery (Jump Starting)
PROCEDURE

Position the vehicle with the charged battery close enough to comfortably route the jumper cable to the battery.

Make sure all power consumers are switched off in the vehicle with the discharged battery.

Connect the first jumper cable to the positive terminals of both batteries.

Connect the other cable first to the negative terminal of the charged auxiliary battery, then to a bare metal ground point in the engine compartment of the vehicle with the discharged battery (for example, directly to the engine).

Start the engine of the auxiliary vehicle and run it at increased speed so that the alternator produces a higher voltage.

If the engine does not start immediately, pause to let the starter motor cool. Keep the auxiliary engine running so that the discharged battery charges somewhat.

When removing the jumper cables, first disconnect the clamp from the negative terminal of the charged auxiliary battery.

Starting the Engine by Pushing
With two helpers, the Audi can be easily pushed into motion.

PROCEDURE

Switch the ignition on.

Engage first gear. In higher gears the alternator rotates too slowly and will not supply sufficient current.

Depress the clutch pedal; the helpers should push the vehicle.

Once the vehicle is moving, release the clutch.

As soon as the engine starts, immediately depress the clutch and apply the accelerator.

Starting the Engine by Towing
For towing, it is best to choose a helper who already has experience with this, otherwise an accident is possible. Remember: when the engine is not running, the power steering and power brakes also do not work.

PROCEDURE

Switch the ignition on, engage second gear, and depress the clutch pedal.

The vehicle ahead must start moving slowly.

At a speed of approximately 15 km/h, slowly begin to release the clutch, keeping your right hand on the parking brake lever.

If the engine starts, depress the clutch and press the accelerator.

Apply the parking brake so that you do not strike the vehicle ahead.

Sound the horn to alert the driver of the vehicle ahead.

Place the gear selector in neutral and release the clutch.

Gently apply the parking brake together with the towing vehicle.