eberhardlorenz45

Seat Altea Diesel Rough Running When Cold

My Seat Altea, 2011 diesel, is playing up. It's got just under 100000 km on the clock. Getting rough running when it's cold, especially first thing. There's an error in the memory, plus I think it's using more fuel. I reckon it's the PTC heater packing up. Any thoughts?

4 comment(s)

Sounds like a classic PTC heater failure. The symptoms align perfectly: poor cold starts, fault codes, and increased fuel consumption. These electric heaters assist engine warm-up, especially in diesels. First, have you checked the relevant fuses? A blown fuse is an easy fix. Also, can you read the specific fault code stored? That could give more insight. Is the cold air constantly blowing or only for the first few minutes?

Fuses seem okay. I don't have the exact code to hand, but it mentioned 'auxiliary heater malfunction'. The cold air is only at the beginning, then it gets better. Is it possible to check the heating element myself, or is it too complex?

That error code confirms it's likely the PTC heater. While you could technically check the heating element for continuity with a multimeter, accessing it can be a pain, often buried deep. Given the symptoms and the error code, it's almost certainly a faulty heating element within the PTC heater unit. Considering the price you mentioned, it's probably the best bet to get it done professionally. You'll regain proper temperature control and fuel economy.

Cheers for the help. Took it to a garage, they confirmed the PTC heater was shot. Quoted 350€, got it sorted. Heating's back, and it's running much smoother on cold starts now.

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