Safe mode?

2004 AUDI A4
120,000 MILES • 1.9L • 6 CYL • TURBO • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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CRYSTALCARGO907
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  • 3 POSTS
Replaced transmission and battery. Car entered theft deterrent mode and won't engage starter. I can jump the starter to get the car to start but that's the only way to start it.
Feb 14, 2023 at 7:30 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

If you are able to start it by jumping the starter, then the immobilizer isn't the issue. Have you tried retrieving diagnostic trouble codes? Also, did you try starting it in neutral? If you replaced the transmission, there could be a shift linkage adjustment issue or even a faulty neutral/park safety switch.

Let me know. Also, please confirm if this is a 3.0L V6 or a 1.8L 4-cylinder. Additionally, if it is a Quattro, it should have a 6-speed automatic. If it is the 4=cylinder, it likely has a CVT. Please let me know which you have.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below. I included the starter circuit so you have a reference.
Image (Click to enlarge)
Attached Media
Feb 15, 2023 at 7:31 PM
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CRYSTALCARGO907
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I have not tried it in neutral. And it's the 1.8l 4 cylinder Quattro. I'll try to start it in neutral tomorrow. I was thinking maybe the starter has a corroded wire now and just isn't engaging.
Feb 15, 2023 at 7:41 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Okay, thanks for the update. Let me know what you find or if you have questions.

Take care,

joe
Feb 15, 2023 at 8:57 PM
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CRYSTALCARGO907
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Won't start in neutral. Check wires for starter everything seems fine. I'm really not sure what else it could be. Possible re-flashing the ECU?
Feb 16, 2023 at 4:33 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

I need to know if the transmission is a CVT, a 5-speed automatic, or a 6-speed automatic. I have a 05 3.0L with a 5-speed automatic. If you take a picture of the transmission pan, I should be able to identify it.

I need this because each one has a different wiring schematic for the starter circuit.

Let me know.

Joe
Feb 16, 2023 at 7:05 PM