KZimmermann86

Difficulties with 2012 Audi A4 petrol engine: black smoke, loss of power and high fuel consumption

Hi guys, I have a few worries with my Audi A4 gasoline engine, built in 2012 with 134567 km mileage. The thing is causing problems like black smoke when accelerating, check engine light is on, loss of power, engine running rough, jerking when accelerating and high fuel consumption. Before I go to the garage again, I wanted to check if any of you have ever had this? Could it be due to a defective lambda sensor heater? I had a pretty bad experience at the mechanic last time, so I'd rather ask you guys. Would be grateful for any experiences or advice. Thanks in advance.

(Translated from German)

4 comment(s)

Hey, I had a similar problem with my 2015 Audi A6 and the symptoms were really worrying. Unfortunately in my case the engine control unit was faulty, no fun I can tell you. A faulty ECU can mess up all sorts of things, including smoke, loss of power and increased fuel consumption. The lambda sensor also plays a role, but is often just a symptom and not the cause. In my case, the engine control unit had to be replaced, which is a serious repair. But since then my car has been running like new again. So maybe it should be checked before you look any further. I hope it's nothing serious. All the best!

(Translated from German)

Hey, thanks for your quick reply, really helpful! The engine control unit sounds a bit worrying, but it's good to know that everything will work again afterwards. Do you remember what you paid for the repair? And has anything else come up since then, other problems or anything? I'd be interested to know so that I can be prepared. Thanks in advance.

(Translated from German)

Hey, you're welcome! Well, it can be quite a blow when the engine control unit gives up the ghost, it was also a big chunk of money for me. It was around €1000, if I remember correctly. But after that, the car ran like clockwork again, so I'd say it was worth it. As for your second question... after the whole repair story, there were actually no further misfires. Oh yes, the problem with the lambda sensor heating that you mentioned - that was fixed at the same time as the engine control unit. Since I've had the car at the mechanic, no further problems have arisen. So don't worry, if you take care of your car, everything will be fine. Keep your fingers crossed!

(Translated from German)

Hey, great, thanks for the detailed information! 1000€ sounds hefty, but if it helps the car, it's probably worth the investment. And of course it's a huge relief to hear that you didn't have any further problems afterwards. I hope it will be as straightforward for me. I'll take your advice to heart and take care of the issue in the near future. Thank you again, this has helped me a lot. Have a great day!

(Translated from German)

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