Start an Audi with a Dead Key Fob

How to Start an Audi with a Dead Key Fob

Starting Your Audi

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Early Models

Early Audi models use a slot in the dashboard but do not use a Start/Stop button. The fob itself is pushed to start or stop the car. If the key fob battery is dead, the vehicle will already recognize the fob when inserted.

Audi models that use the Start/Stop button and have a slot in the dashboard, as shown, insert the fob into the dashboard slot and press it to start while depressing the brake pedal as if the fob were the Start/Stop button. The actual Start/Stop ignition button is disabled.

In models that do not feature a slot for the fob, look for the symbol of a key with lines radiating from it, as shown on the far right. It will be to the right of the steering column on the dashboard or on the right side of the steering column itself. The Audi Q2 and Q3 models still uses the spot on the column (right).

The fob needs to be held against the mark while the vehicle is started, so unfortunately, this requires the awkward use of both hands.

Older Q7

In the Audi Q7, the symbol is just in front of the center console storage area. Touch the tip or the back of the fob to the symbol – or in the case of Q7 simply drop the fob on the symbol – and press the Start/Stop button while depressing the brake pedal, all at the same time.

Note that in 2007 and 2008, a standard ignition switch exists in the dashboard. Use the mechanical  key in this switch to start the vehicle.

A5, Q5, A3, Q3

In 2018, the mark is moved to the driver’s side cup holder in the A5 and Q5. This is also true of the A3 and Q3 beginning about 2021. The mark is smaller and shaded and so a bit difficult to see. As with the Q7, the key fob can be dropped onto the spot in the cup holder, and starting the car becomes a one hand (and one foot) operation. Press the Start/Stop button while stepping on the brake. It took two tries to before the key fob was recognized in our test car, but it did work.

A5, A6

Beginning 2019, the A5 and A6 now have the mark at the front of the center console storage area, as shown to the right. Again the key fob can be dropped onto the spot, and starting the car needs only a single hand (and foot). Press the Start/Stop button while stepping on the brake. Our test car started first time in this case.

Newer Q7, Q8, e-tron GT

The new (2019) Q8, and now the Q7, also has the marking in a cup holder. It is the front one in this case. However, we noted a slot between the cup holders adjacent to the 12 volt power outlet and shaped very much like the key fob, Sure enough, the fob was recognized when placed inside the slot.

Models are now being electrified. The e-tron GT uses the rear cup holder as in the images above. However, the original e-tron and e-tron Sportback the mark is found in front of the of the cup holders (right). We have not had access to all electric models, and the term e-tron is used as a suffix for all electric models (there are Q4 and Q8 e-tron models, for example) but a back up location will likely be found in or near the cup holders.

A4, S4

By 2023, the A4 and S4 models sport the mark on the center console, just in front of the console storage area.

Always Look for the Mark!

All this is to say that there will be a mark somewhere in all Audi models.

In all likelihood if the mark is not found on the dashboard or the side of the steering column, it is most likely to be found somewhere on the console area.

Note: If you have made an attempt to start the vehicle without success, there may be residual pressure in the brake system and a new warning light may appear (left) or text message to Step on the Brake. Press the brake pedal very, very hard when trying to start the vehicle again to be sure that the release switch behind the pedal is engaged. Or wait a few minutes and try again.

Click here for video help with Audi models and key fobs.

Audi models examined include the A1, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, eTron, Q2, Q3, Q4, Q5, Q7, Q8, RS, S3, S4, S5, and TT. Model years 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023.

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The information on this website is provided for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

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