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LarSchm91

Seeking Advice on Recurring Check Engine Light, Fuel Economy Drop, and Intense Exhaust Smell in 2018 Seat Tarraco

Hey fellow car gurus, I'm having a bit of a weird issue with my 2018 Seat Tarraco (Gas engine). Seeing the check engine light pop up a lot recently, feeling a hit in my fuel economy and I'm also getting a pretty intense exhaust smell. I've been wondering if my secondary air valve could be wonky. Has anyone encountered a similar problem with their Tarraco? Would appreciate hearing about what your mechanic did to fix it. Thanks in advance, folks!

4 comment(s)

FabBeck93

Hey there, In your boat, I was with my 2016 Seat Leon (Petrol), pretty similar case. I've got some experience with cars. My local workshop diagnosed an electric switching valve defect. Cost me around 140 Euro to have it rectified. Could you give more info on your Tarraco? Like mileage or maintenance history? Might help identify if we're dealing with the same issue. Cheers!

LarSchm91 (Author)

Hello! Thanks for the insight, could be a similar issue then! My Tarraco's currently at 113186 KM plus I keep it well serviced, latest maintenance was just a few months ago. It's usually smooth sailing but this problem's got me curious. Will look into the electric switching valve you mentioned. Cheers for the help!

FabBeck93

Hey again, Great to hear that you're on top of the car maintenance! With that mileage, it’s still quite young and the regular maintenance definitely helps. Given what you've shared, I'm kind of convinced that it could be a problem with secondary air valve aka electric switching valve. The symptoms I had were almost identical: pretty bad fuel economy, stronger exhaust smell, and of course, that annoying check engine light. Sorted it out with a valve replacement. If it's the same issue, you’re probably looking at a similar cost. Just remember to get a proper diagnostic done before throwing parts at it. It might be this, or it might be a completely different beast. Just hope it's nothing too severe! Keep me posted about the diagnosis. Good Luck!

LarSchm91 (Author)

Hey, Appreciate the helpful advice! It's reassuring to hear that the symptoms are almost identical to what you went through. I'll be sure to get a proper diagnostic done first before making any decisions. A valve replacement doesn't sound too harsh on the pocket, so here's hoping it's nothing worse. I'll keep you posted once I've had the mechanic look into it. Thanks a lot for the help! See ya!

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