Audi Repair: Starting issue & possible overheating?, engine coolant, gauge needle

Question
Hi,

First of all thanks for taking the time to answer theses questions.  It's much appreciated.

1)  Sometimes, mostly when my 2001 TT (1.8L 64,000 miles)is cold, it won't start on the first couple of tries.  I'll turn the key... it starts up and then it stops.  After a few tries, it always ends up starting and running just fine, but it's rather annoying.

2)  Sometimes when starting my car, or at an idle, the temperature gauge needle will creep up a couple notches past the center.  Maybe it's nothing, but it always catches my eye and makes me nervous.

Thanks again.

Answer
It sounds like perhaps the cold start valve isn't performing like it should, the easiest way to check functionality is to get the computer codes (if any) read out and check if there are any sensors which are giving problmes.  It could be something simple and common like the engine coolant sensor.  With reference to the temperature, the thermostat does allow the temperature to oscillate a little, the fan should kick on and bring the temperature back down.  if this happens, then your car is behaving as normal.  Cheers,  Jan