starting problems audi a3

[donr]

i have a 1997 audi a3 and lately i am having problems starting it.
it starts fine first thing in the morning but if i drive down to the local paper shop nip in for a paper it takes ages to start.
also if i need to top up the engine oil but do not know what type of oil was used when it was serviced (multigrade or synthetic ) does it matter what type of oil i top it up with.
any help would be great.

 

[^neo^]

The first thing i'd change is the coolant temp sender. Not expensive and a 5 minute job to fit.
Use the genuine oil from the dealers (synta silver), it's not over expensive (£14 a gallon) and at least you know it's right for the car

 

[Softus]

Try a different paper shop?

But seriously, this could be many things, and without more information there's not much one can offer; rushing in and changing components isn't usually what this forum is about.

For example:

1. Which engine is it?
2. What's the (genuine) mileage?
3. How many owners?
4. Does it have a tow bar?
5. Has it been regularly serviced?
6. How long have you had the car?
7. How often do you check the oil?
8. How do you get the car started outside the paper shop?