What causes the abnormal noise when starting an Audi A4L?
2 Answers
The reasons for abnormal noise when starting an Audi A4L are as follows: 1. Running-in of a new car: The break-in of brake pads is a crucial part. Generally, it takes several hundred kilometers of driving before the brakes feel more comfortable; 2. Newly replaced brake pads also need a break-in period to better integrate with the old discs. Right after replacement, the brakes may feel very hard, and it similarly requires several hundred kilometers of driving before improvement is noticed; 3. During driving, very small sand particles might get between the pads and discs, sometimes causing noise due to friction. In most cases, this situation doesn't require repair, and the small sand particles will fall out after some driving.
I experienced a similar issue with my A4L - a loud clunking noise during startup, which was quite alarming. It's most likely transmission-related. Audi's dual-clutch design sometimes produces friction sounds during cold starts, or it could indicate clutch plate wear. Later, when I took it to the dealership for inspection, they found insufficient transmission fluid - topping it up solved the problem. Similar issues might stem from loose drive shafts or aging ball joints, especially after several years of driving. I strongly advise against ignoring such symptoms, as minor noises can eventually damage the entire drivetrain if left unattended. Additionally, regular fluid changes during maintenance can prevent such issues. As a long-time owner, I often remind friends to pay attention to unusual vehicle sounds.
