Two problems related to car will not start have been reported for the 1997 Audi A4. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Ignition switch appeared to break when starting car. The key would not return all the way to starting position and windshield wipers failed to start in the rain. Pulled car to side of road and shut off ignition. Car would not restart and ignition key remains in forward position. Called Audi. Audi states that the recalled ignition switch was replaced on my vehicle because they have no record of it not being replaced. Service for the car has been at Audi service since purchase in 1997. I do not recall ever receiving the recall letter or having the ignition switch replaced. If it was replaced without my knowledge, it apparently remained defective.
Prior to recall,vehicle would not start and the steering wheel locked up, consumer stated that ignition switch was replaced twice and it seems that the problem has resurfaced again, dealer claims to know nothing about the recall.