Warning light on dash orange with key on it

[johno 1969]

when i try to start my car which is an A4 Avant Quattro (1996) the light flashes which is situated on the rev counter side of the dash the light is orange/amber in colour whith a car shape on it with a key symbol on it now it flashes and car starts then cuts out so im sure its to do with the alarm/imoboliser side of things and i have to turn key off and on for a few minutes then it comes on and goes out then car starts and runs fine is this a problem with the key or alarm or something else any help would be great

thanks johno

[mavala]

It is the Engine immobiliser that is not recognising the key.
The key has a chip in it that communicates with the car's immobiliser and allows you to get the engine running and keeps it running.
If this is not happening, the car starts, but cuts out after 1 or 2 seconds.
Have you tried the other key to see if you get the same symptoms?
If you have the same problem with both keys, it could be the immobiliser itself. Otherwise you just need the key re-programmed at the dealer.

[andymcstump]

I had an dentical problem. Spare key made no difference. Did you manage to resolve the issue?

[johno 1969]

cleaned the contacts on black reader around ignition helped but still now and then the problem recures thinking of having it removed and a new up to date immobaliser fitted tbh

johno