Audi A1 Power Loss: Likely Turbo System Failure Alert

I had a very similar engine issue with my 2019 Audi A3. As someone with some experience working on cars, I initially tried using my own auto scanner to read the diagnostic codes when the check engine light appeared. The symptoms matched yours exactly, significant power loss and sluggish acceleration. After getting multiple fault codes related to the ECU, I discovered it was caused by a faulty chip tuning installation performed by a third-party tuning shop. The fix required a complete reset of the engine control unit and reinstallation of the original factory software. The dealer had to use their professional car diagnostic tools to properly restore everything. Total cost was 180 Euro for the software reset and programming. Before suggesting specific solutions for your case, it would help to know: Have you had any recent modifications or tuning done to the car? What specific diagnostic codes showed up during the scan? Does the power loss happen gradually or suddenly? Are there any other warning lights besides the check engine light? The A1 and A3 share similar engine management systems, so your issue could be related. Would definitely recommend getting a proper diagnostic scan done at a dealer or specialized Audi shop rather than relying on basic code readers.

Last service was at 165000 KM and the car computer still shows multiple fault codes. You raise some good points about the ECU. After reading your reply, I checked my documentation and discovered I had an aftermarket chip tuning done about 8 months ago at a local performance shop. The power loss happened quite suddenly while driving on the highway, and the dashboard light came on immediately. The basic scan tool showed P0234 and P0299 codes, which seem related to boost pressure. No other warning lights are visible on the dashboard. Think I should get it checked professionally rather than rely on basic diagnostic tools.

Based on those fault codes P0234 and P0299, this is almost certainly related to the aftermarket chip tuning, just like what happened with my A3. These codes specifically point to turbocharger overboost and underboost conditions, which can occur when the ECU programming isnt properly calibrated. The check engine light and power loss are typical safety responses when the car computer detects these boost pressure irregularities. In my case, the fault codes kept reappearing even after clearing them with basic scan tools. You definitely need a professional diagnostic scan. The basic code readers dont show the full scope of ECU-related issues. When I had mine fixed, the dealer found additional fault codes that my personal scanner missed completely. Given the similarities to my situation, you likely have two options: 1. Restore to factory ECU settings (around 200 Euro) 2. Have the performance tune properly reinstalled by a certified shop (300-400 Euro) Would strongly recommend getting this addressed soon, as continued driving with boost pressure issues can potentially cause engine damage. The engine issue should be fully reversible if caught early, just like it was in my case.

Thanks for the helpful information about the ECU and fault codes. I was actually thinking about the chip tuning but didnt make the connection until you mentioned it. The P0234 and P0299 codes definitely explain the power loss Im experiencing. You are right about getting it professionally checked, no point risking engine damage by continuing to drive it like this. Will contact a certified shop tomorrow to schedule vehicle diagnostics and hopefully get the ECU programming sorted out properly. Will ask them about both options you mentioned, either reverting to factory settings or redoing the performance tune correctly. The current situation with the boost pressure issues needs fixing regardless. Just hope the repair costs stay within the range you mentioned and no additional problems have developed from running it with these fault codes.