Golf TDI Camshaft Sensor Failure Causes Power Loss

Had the same symptoms on my 2018 Passat TDI. The rough idling and power loss turned out to be a faulty camshaft position sensor, causing timing issues and throwing the check engine light. The sensor failure was sending incorrect signals about crankshaft and camshaft timing to the ECU, leading to the stalling engine symptoms especially during cold starts. The wiring harness connector was corroded and damaged, causing intermittent connection issues. The repair involved replacing both the sensor and the wiring harness connector. While not a complex job, accessing the sensor required removing several components to reach the timing cover area. A failed camshaft sensor can cause serious engine damage if ignored, as incorrect timing can affect valve operation. The symptoms matched exactly what you describe, initially running fine then sudden power loss and starting problems. Getting it fixed promptly is important since continuing to drive with faulty timing signals risks more extensive engine damage. Worth having a professional diagnose it properly, as similar symptoms could also indicate other timing-related issues. The repair should include testing the new sensor operation after installation to ensure proper signal output.

Those symptoms remind me of the identical issue I faced with my Golf last summer. Engine misfire and rough idling were exactly as you describe. The camshaft sensor diagnosis was spot on in my case and replacing it resolved the check engine light and poor performance. Were you quoted a reasonable price for the fix? In my case the part wasnt too expensive, but labor costs varied quite a bit between shops. Just wondering if you got it sorted and if any other issues surfaced since the repair? Always good to know if it was a permanent solution or if other related problems popped up later.

Just got the camshaft sensor issue fixed last week. The automotive sensor diagnosis proved correct, it was indeed a faulty connection causing those timing issues and rough idling. The repair was straightforward at 95€, just needed to fix the cable connection rather than replace the entire sensor. The stalling engine problems and power loss completely disappeared after the repair. Performance is back to normal with no check engine light or cold start issues since then. The mechanic mentioned catching it early prevented potential damage to other engine components. The repair cost was reasonable compared to what other shops charge for similar work. No additional problems have surfaced since the fix, the car runs smoothly without any rough idling or timing-related concerns. Getting it addressed quickly was definitely the right call to avoid more serious engine complications.

Glad I took it to my regular mechanic last week. He diagnosed the engine misfire right away and confirmed the failing camshaft sensor. Labor came to 180€ plus parts at 65€, which seemed fair since he had to remove several components to access the sensor. The rough idling completely stopped after the repair. My mechanic showed me the old sensor, the connector was pretty corroded, explaining the timing issues and power loss. He also cleaned the surrounding area and checked the wiring harness while everything was apart. Really happy I caught this early. The car starts perfectly now, even in cold weather, and the check engine light is gone. No other problems have shown up since the fix. Just sharing my experience since automotive sensor problems can be tricky to diagnose without proper testing equipment.