Audi Cabriolet Car is hard to start Inspection at your home or office.

Our certified mobile mechanics come to you 7 days a week between 7 AM and 9 PM.

Estimate price near me

Service Location

Customer Ratings

(2,458)

How A Diagnostic Works

Instantly book a certified mobile mechanic to come to you

Mechanic diagnoses the problem and quotes necessary repairs

Your vehicle is ready to go

Fair, upfront & transparent pricing for all services

Our certified mobile mechanics can come to you now.

Customer Ratings

(2,458)

Car is hard to start Inspection Service

How much does a Car is hard to start Inspection cost?

On average, the cost for a Audi Cabriolet Car is hard to start Inspection is $95 with $0 for parts and $95 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
1997 Audi CabrioletV6-2.8LService typeCar is hard to start InspectionEstimate$114.99Shop/Dealer Price$132.49 - $145.62
1995 Audi CabrioletV6-2.8LService typeCar is hard to start InspectionEstimate$94.99Shop/Dealer Price$112.52 - $125.67
1996 Audi CabrioletV6-2.8LService typeCar is hard to start InspectionEstimate$94.99Shop/Dealer Price$112.52 - $125.67
1994 Audi CabrioletV6-2.8LService typeCar is hard to start InspectionEstimate$94.99Shop/Dealer Price$112.48 - $125.60
1998 Audi CabrioletV6-2.8LService typeCar is hard to start InspectionEstimate$94.99Shop/Dealer Price$112.55 - $125.72
Show example Audi Cabriolet Car is hard to start Inspection prices

A car that is hard to start can be a major inconvenience. While this is usually not a life threatening malfunction, it can make getting around much more difficult. There are a number of issues that will make a car hard to start. Everything from the electrical system to the fuel system to the actual starter itself can be the problem.

Finding the root cause of a hard starting engine can take some investigation. Ignoring a hard starting issue can further damage the vehicle, which will often result in a more expensive repair.

How this system works:

In order to get an engine running, it must be turned at speed so that it starts to suck fuel and air into the cylinders, and then compress and ignite this fuel/air mixture.

The starter motor is an electric motor that turns the engine to get it started. The starter motor has a small pinion gear wheel that engages with a larger gear ring at the rim of the engine flywheel.

The starter motor draws the electric current it needs to run from the battery. The starter needs a heavy current and to avoid sparking a solenoid is used. The ignition switch operates the starter motor. When the ignition is turned on, current is fed to the solenoid and into the starter motor. Once the car engine starts and the key is released, the starter motor turns off.

Common reasons for this to happen:

  • Bad Starter: Over time starter motors can wear out and start to malfunction. If this is the problem the starter will have to be replaced. If the car turns over, the problem is not the starter. If nothing happens when the key is turned the problem could be the starter, or if the car turns over very slowly and the dash lights dim while it is cranking, the starter could be the culprit.

  • Bad Relay Wiring: The wiring between the battery and starter can become loose or broken which will prevent the starter motor from functioning. The wiring will need to be replaced or repaired.

  • Low or Dead Battery: The starter motor needs voltage from the battery to operate. If the battery is low or failing it may not produce enough current for the starter motor to function. Charging or replacing the batter should resolve this problem.

It is also possible that the battery terminals have become corroded or loose. Cleaning and tightening the terminals and cables is recommended.

  • Failing Solenoid: A failing solenoid is a common issue with the starter system and if the solenoid is going bad, the car will be difficult to start. The starter will need to be inspected to determine if the problem is the starter motor itself or the solenoid. A failing solenoid will need to be replaced.

  • Failing Ignition Switch: Over time an ignition switch can start to fail and one of the most common symptoms is that the car is hard to start. If the ignition switch is hot to the touch this indicates an issue with the ignition switch wiring. A failing ignition switch will eventually stop working completely and will need to be replaced.

  • Defective Fuel Pump: If the engine is not getting enough fuel, it will be hard, if not impossible to start. The fuel pump is responsible for pulling gas from the tank to the injectors and if it is not delivering enough fuel the car will be difficult to start and eventually will not start at all.

  • Fouled Plugs: Spark plugs create the spark which allows the vehicle to burn fuel. Fouled plugs are one of the most common reasons for a hard starting engine. As electrodes wear down, the voltage required to jump the gap to ignite the fuel increases. This can lead to prolonged cranking before the engine will start.

  • Clogged Fuel Filter: A fuel filter that is clogged can make a vehicle very difficult to start. The fuel filter screens out contaminants and can become clogged over time. This will prevent the injectors from getting enough fuel, making the car hard to start.

  • Contaminated Fuel: Fuel that has too much alcohol or water in it will result in a car that is difficult and often impossible to start. Even if it does start, contaminated fuel can do serious damage to the engine. If contaminated fuel is suspected, have the vehicle inspected immediately.

What to expect:

A top-rated mobile mechanic will come to your home or office to determine the source and cause of the hard to start issue, ​and will then provide a detailed inspection report that includes the scope and cost of the necessary repairs.

How it's done:

The starter, battery, connecting wiring and other important components will be inspected by the mechanic. This may include the vehicle's fuel pump, fuel filter, spark plugs, ignition and more. It may be necessary for the mechanic to crank up the car to verify the problem and issue an accurate diagnosis.

How important is this service?

If a car is hard to start, it's indicative of a major condition preventing normal operation and if left unattended it may lead to the car not starting at all. The vehicle should be inspected and repaired as soon as possible.

Fast and easy service at your home or office

Backed by 12-month, 12.000-mile guarantee


Meet some of our expert Audi mechanics

Real customer reviews from Audi owners like you.

Excellent Rating

(2,458)

Rating Summary
2,279
87
19
12
61
2,279
87
19
12
61

Stephen

32 years of experience
182 reviews
Stephen
32 years of experience
Audi Cabriolet V6-2.8L - Car is not starting - Westminster, Colorado
He was able to diagnosed the problem, and able to fix ed my car. He's the only one, in fact. Thank you Stephen.

Brikk

18 years of experience
389 reviews
Brikk
18 years of experience
Audi Cabriolet V6-2.8L - Window is not working - Charlotte, North Carolina
Brick is very thorough and makes sure he does the job right.

Peter

28 years of experience
533 reviews
Peter
28 years of experience
Audi A4 L4-2.0L Turbo - Car is hard to start - Simi Valley, California
Peter was very friendly and knowledgable when he first arrived and gave me very informative details about my car that I didn't know existed. After diagnosing the car he was able to find the issues with the car and describe each issue with the car throughly. After today Peter gave me confidence in knowing there wasn't a major problem with my car like some mechanic shops and dealerships have said. I'd love to have him back with my car once iv had some time to figure the parts I will need to service the car.

Joe

15 years of experience
453 reviews
Joe
15 years of experience
Audi S4 V8-4.2L - Gas Cap - Nashville, Tennessee
Once he arrived he stayed to give a thorough inspection and possible options for car (our need could have been other things as well). Had the right part. Definitely recommend Joe and recommend the service.

Excellent Rating

(2,458)

Rating Summary
2,279
87
19
12
61
2,279
87
19
12
61
Number of Audi services completed
27038+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT Audi MECHANICS
700+
experts on our platform

Recent articles & questions

What Does an Engine Inspection Entail?
An engine inspection is the first step in diagnosing engine problems. A pre-purchase engine inspection helps you know if a used car is a good deal.
2012 Chevrolet Cruze vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra: Which One Should I Buy?
When you’re looking for a four-door sedan, you’re likely interested in a smaller family car that still offers decent styling and looks, great gas mileage, and a comfortable interior that will keep your family safe as you’re driving. While not...
How to Keep Your Vehicle Safe From Theft
With With over a million cars stolen each year in the US, vehicle theft has become a concern for vehicle owners. Fortunately, you can increase the chances of keeping your vehicle safe from theft by taking a few simple steps,...

Is Brand-Name Gasoline Better?

Brand-name gasoline isn't necessarily better than independent label gasoline. Gasoline is gasoline. That being said, name-brand fuel (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/which-gas-stations-have-the-best-quality-gas) does have some attributes and qualities that independent fuelers don't have. Let me explain. There actually is a difference in gasoline. That...

What does it mean when the interior alarm sounds once?

The interior alarm can sound in a variety of ways to alert you when something is not correct. If the alarm sounds a single time, and has a flashing yellow key indicator, then the battery in the electronic key is...

Problems starting my car. It cranks strong but for a long time - 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Hi there. A malfunctioning mass air flow sensor may create the extended crank concern; however, a sticking idle air control valve can create the same concern. Cleaning of either components has been known to help with the situation. However, this...

How can we help?

Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.

1 (855) 347-2779 · hi@yourmechanic.com