Having a bit of a problem with my Audi, sometimes it'll start then slowly die over 2-3 seconds and seems to be showing the immobiliser light. It sounds like it's getting starved of fuel?

I had a problem a few months ago where it would not start, but I kept cranking it over and gave it some throttle and after a bit it splurted into life.

Any ideas of where to try first?

That's the immobiliser cutting in, it wll allow the car to start and then cut the fuel. On a B5 it's likely to be the wiring that goes to the reader coil, but could also be the reader coil itself.

Reader coil would be in the steering column?

The reader coil is the black bulky part on the end of the ignition barrel, around the keyhole.

Ah right, assuming I'd need a new part, then have it and my key re-coded? Or do it simply pass the signal on?

It's a petrol car telling you that ultimately the only way towards reliability is to go diesel, Andrew... you know it's right and you know you want torque really

My Audi's got plenty of torque thankyouverymuchly!

Although once it's fine I am gonna sell it!

Ah right, assuming I'd need a new part, then have it and my key re-coded? Or do it simply pass the signal on?

Sorry mate, didn't see your post. The coil is part of the ignition barrel and although I've heard stories of them being separated it's not for the feint hearted! It only passes the signal on so you wouldn't need to recode your key but if you did order a new barrel you'd have to order it through a dealer who can match the barrel to your existing key via your VIN.

It's worth checking the wiring first.

Right, ok!

It's not done it for a week now? So it does seem possibly wiring!