A4 - Screeching noise on starting, stopped by key turn

[audifan1970]

Hi everyone,

My old (1997) A4 has developed a bit of an odd manerism. Sometimes on starting the car there is a noise that sounds a bit like a fan belt slipping, maybe a bit more metallic, which stops completely if the ignition key is turned slightly?? There is a slight bit of play with the key when the car is started to turn it back towards the driver slightly - and this stops the noise.

I realise this isn't much of a description of the issue, but I was wondering if any of you very knoweledgable guys recognise this behaviour at all? Seems totally strange to me. Any help or ideas would be really appreciated.

Thanks.

[Dave^]

Sticking starter solenoid perhaps?

or worn ignition barrel.

[audifan1970]

Thanks for the reply Dave, much appreciated. So, either of the issues you mentioned could cause the noise to occur then could they?