A6 TDI Charge Sensor Symptoms and Repair Tips

Having dealt with a similar issue on my 2021 A4 TDI last winter, I can share my experience with this sensor problem. I have some experience working on modern diesel engines and their various sensors. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I encountered, inconsistent temperature gauge readings and that distinctive whistling noise during acceleration. The automotive sensor system was showing erratic air temperature measurements, which triggered the engine management light. After initial diagnosis, my workshop found a damaged wire connection to the charge air temperature sensor. The temperature fluctuation was caused by intermittent signal loss between the sensor and the ECU. The fix involved replacing the wiring connector and securing the connection properly, which cost 95 Euro for parts and labor. Before suggesting specific solutions, could you provide: Complete error codes from your ECU, Whether the symptoms occur more during cold or warm engine conditions, If the engine sensor warning is constant or intermittent, Temperature readings when the issue occurs This information would help determine if your A6 is experiencing the same root cause as my A4 had.

My last service record from 2 weeks ago shows 42736 KM on the clock. The workshop tested air sensor connections and cleared fault codes, but the problem persists. After resetting, the temperature fluctuation returns within a day, particularly noticeable on cold starts. The whistling from the air intake gets worse under load. Can confirm P0113 and P0114 error codes now showing consistently. A basic sensor check cost 80 Euro but did not resolve the underlying issue.

Thanks for the additional details about your A6. After seeing those specific error codes, I am now even more convinced we had the same issue. When my A4 showed P0113/P0114, the initial sensor checks and code clearing also proved ineffective, just like in your case. The consistent error codes and cold start symptoms perfectly match the air sensor failure pattern I experienced. While my initial 95 Euro repair focused on wiring, the problem returned within days. The root cause turned out to be the charge air temperature sensor itself, not just the connections. The definitive fix required replacing the entire air sensor unit, as the temperature fluctuation was caused by internal sensor degradation. After installation, both the whistling noise from the air intake and engine power issues resolved completely. The final repair including parts and labor came to 320 Euro. Given the identical symptoms and error codes, I would recommend skipping further diagnostic attempts and going straight for sensor replacement. Modern TDI engines are particularly sensitive to air temperature sensor accuracy, which explains the reduced power and persistent check engine warnings we both encountered.

Thanks for those repair details. I have scheduled a sensor replacement appointment for next week since the symptoms match so closely with your experience. The temperature fluctuation and intake noise were really starting to worry me, especially during my daily commute. Hearing that a full air sensor replacement fixed these exact issues on your TDI gives me confidence about the repair direction. The 320 Euro cost is actually lower than I expected for dealership work on these engine sensor systems. Good to know the fix should address both the temperature gauge inconsistency and the power issues. Will update the forum once the repair is complete to confirm if replacing the charge air temperature sensor resolves everything. Hoping for the same positive outcome you had with your sensor replacement.