Black smoke and starting difficulties in a 2009 VW Eos Diesel: Possible glow control unit defect?

Hey, I can really empathize with your situation. I drive a 2006 VW Eos myself and had similar problems to yours. In my case, it wasn't a glow control unit fault, but a problem with the turbocharger and the fuel pump - they were worn out. In addition, the diesel particulate filter had to be cleaned as it was no longer working properly. The engine was shaking a lot and the preheating light was also flickering. In the end, I had to take the car to the garage for a thorough inspection and repair. It was quite a challenge, but after the repair the car ran perfectly again. Check your Eos, it could be similar. All the best!

(Translated from German)

Hey, thanks for the tip! So in your case it was something to do with the turbocharger and the fuel pump plus cleaning the diesel particulate filter, I see. Can you remember how much the whole thing cost you? And has anything else come up since the repair or is your Eos not giving you any trouble now? Would really like to know what I might have to adjust to. Thank you!

(Translated from German)

Hey, of course I can still remember. The costs are sometimes a real shock, but well, that's part and parcel of driving an older car. It was a total of €155 to repair the wiring harness from the glow control unit to the digital diesel electronics, which was unfortunately defective and damaged in my car. But you know what's cool? Since the repair, the glow control unit defect has been fixed, yay! So I'm telling you, right after I picked up the car from the mechanic, I could literally feel how well my old Eos was running again. So far nothing else has come up and my Eos is no longer causing trouble - it runs smooth as a kitten. No matter what comes up with your Eos, don't panic. Make sure you find a decent garage and let them do what needs to be done. It's often annoying and sometimes expensive, but once you're happily cruising down the road again, you'll feel a hundred times better. I hope it goes just as well for you!

(Translated from German)

Hey, €155 for the wiring harness repair doesn't sound too bad and it's really reassuring to hear that your Eos has been running well since then. So I'm going to follow your advice, don't panic, find a trustworthy garage and then do what needs to be done. Hopefully I'll have peace of mind afterwards, like you. Thank you for your advice and words of encouragement, it has shown some light at the end of the tunnel. Wish you continued good driving with your Eos! Bye!

(Translated from German)

Hello, I also had the problem that the glow control unit was defective but not the wiring harness. I think the repair cost me about 250 euros directly at the authorized dealer. I only noticed the problem in winter, when the glow plugs are extremely important according to the service advisor at the garage. He also told me that the glow plugs are not only needed when starting, but also for "intermediate glowing" when driving, for example to enable regeneration of the DPF.

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Mine is a 2021 Tuguan. Don't think I have a glow control unit as it's a gas engine.

I drive a gas version. Not sure why I'm getting that code. It's going into the dealer for a check.

For a gas engine, the glow control unit wouldn't be relevant, but if you're getting a code, it could be related to something else like the ignition system or emissions. Make sure to note any specific symptoms or codes before your dealer visit, as this can help them diagnose the issue more efficiently. Let us know how it goes or if you have any further questions!