ChrisWB

About 80% of the time when I start my car, I hear sort of a slight thud when the engine first turns over. I can feel it through the clutch pedal. I don't believe it makes a difference if my car is in gear or not, but car is in gear a lot when I start it (with clutch fully pressed in or course).<p>Any ideas?

Ray Calvo

I'm postulating now, but assume you don't feel any car movement forward or back (as if the clutch is not fully disengaging). Also, you don't feel any clunk when in 1st or 2nd when you suddenly let up oon the gas (if so, might be a bad engine mount).<p>The "clunk" might simply be the starter solenoid actuating, which is no problem. if it bugs ya, bring it into the dealer.

Joe C

I leave car in first when parked and one start in maybe twenty i feel the thunk in the clutch and hear the noise. I thought about the starter or possibly the drive train / quattro but that does not make sense because you must have the clutch engaged. I will mention it as Wed. I take her in for 5000 mile service. Yes I will go to synthetic.<br>99 1.8tqms

Mike U.

I am guessing it could be some type of pump kicking in. I will keep an ear open for it on my car. This could be normal, as on Dodge trucks, there is always a "thunk" coming from the rear of the driver side door. This is all a guess, but might be a similar system start up????<p>Mike U.