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norbertschwarz31
VW Caddy Timing Sensors Causing Poor Performance Issues
4 comment(s)
wolfgangfischer55
Having worked on VWs for a few years as a hobby mechanic, I had a very similar issue with my VW Golf 2014 1.4 TSI. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced, the engine light came on, poor performance, and notably higher fuel consumption. The main problem was the crankshaft position sensor failing to properly sync with the cam sensor, causing engine synchronization issues. After getting it diagnosed, the workshop confirmed the crank sensor was defective and needed replacement. The repair process was straightforward: Diagnostic scan to confirm sensor fault, Removal of old crankshaft sensor, Installation of new sensor, System reset and timing verification, Test drive to ensure proper operation Total cost was 340€ including parts and labor. After the repair, fuel consumption returned to normal and performance was restored. Before suggesting specific solutions, could you share: Complete engine code, Current mileage, Any other warning lights besides check engine, Whether the issues happen more during cold starts or when engine is warm, If you notice any unusual vibrations or sounds This information would help determine if your case is similar to what I encountered with my Golf.
wolfgangfischer55
Having worked on VWs for a few years as a hobby mechanic, I had a very similar issue with my VW Golf 2014 1.4 TSI. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced, the engine light came on, poor performance, and notably higher fuel consumption. The main problem was the crankshaft position sensor failing to properly sync with the cam sensor, causing engine synchronization issues. After getting it diagnosed, the workshop confirmed the crank sensor was defective and needed replacement. The repair process was straightforward: Diagnostic scan to confirm sensor fault, Removal of old crankshaft sensor, Installation of new sensor, System reset and timing verification, Test drive to ensure proper operation Total cost was 340€ including parts and labor. After the repair, fuel consumption returned to normal and performance was restored. Before suggesting specific solutions, could you share: Complete engine code, Current mileage, Any other warning lights besides check engine, Whether the issues happen more during cold starts or when engine is warm, If you notice any unusual vibrations or sounds This information would help determine if your case is similar to what I encountered with my Golf.
wolfgangfischer55
Having worked on VWs for a few years as a hobby mechanic, I had a very similar issue with my VW Golf 2014 1.4 TSI. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced, the engine light came on, poor performance, and notably higher fuel consumption. The main problem was the crankshaft position sensor failing to properly sync with the cam sensor, causing engine synchronization issues. After getting it diagnosed, the workshop confirmed the crank sensor was defective and needed replacement. The repair process was straightforward: Diagnostic scan to confirm sensor fault, Removal of old crankshaft sensor, Installation of new sensor, System reset and timing verification, Test drive to ensure proper operation Total cost was 340€ including parts and labor. After the repair, fuel consumption returned to normal and performance was restored. Before suggesting specific solutions, could you share: Complete engine code, Current mileage, Any other warning lights besides check engine, Whether the issues happen more during cold starts or when engine is warm, If you notice any unusual vibrations or sounds This information would help determine if your case is similar to what I encountered with my Golf.
norbertschwarz31 (Author)
Thanks for sharing the detailed repair experience. My last service was done at 55000km and I'm currently at 57430km. Just to add some context: the misfire only occurs when the engine is fully warm, usually after 15-20 minutes of driving. The reference value error between crank sensor and cam sensor readings seems consistent with what you experienced on your Golf. No other warning lights besides the check engine light, and no unusual vibrations or sounds to report. The sluggish performance and increased fuel consumption match your symptoms exactly. Would replacing just the crankshaft sensor be enough, or should both sensors be changed as a pair?
norbertschwarz31 (Author)
Thanks for sharing the detailed repair experience. My last service was done at 55000km and I'm currently at 57430km. Just to add some context: the misfire only occurs when the engine is fully warm, usually after 15-20 minutes of driving. The reference value error between crank sensor and cam sensor readings seems consistent with what you experienced on your Golf. No other warning lights besides the check engine light, and no unusual vibrations or sounds to report. The sluggish performance and increased fuel consumption match your symptoms exactly. Would replacing just the crankshaft sensor be enough, or should both sensors be changed as a pair?
norbertschwarz31 (Author)
Thanks for sharing the detailed repair experience. My last service was done at 55000km and I'm currently at 57430km. Just to add some context: the misfire only occurs when the engine is fully warm, usually after 15-20 minutes of driving. The reference value error between crank sensor and cam sensor readings seems consistent with what you experienced on your Golf. No other warning lights besides the check engine light, and no unusual vibrations or sounds to report. The sluggish performance and increased fuel consumption match your symptoms exactly. Would replacing just the crankshaft sensor be enough, or should both sensors be changed as a pair?
norbertschwarz31 (Author)
Thanks for sharing the detailed repair experience. My last service was done at 55000km and I'm currently at 57430km. Just to add some context: the misfire only occurs when the engine is fully warm, usually after 15-20 minutes of driving. The reference value error between crank sensor and cam sensor readings seems consistent with what you experienced on your Golf. No other warning lights besides the check engine light, and no unusual vibrations or sounds to report. The sluggish performance and increased fuel consumption match your symptoms exactly. Would replacing just the crankshaft sensor be enough, or should both sensors be changed as a pair?
wolfgangfischer55
Thanks for those additional details. The symptoms on your Caddy are indeed nearly identical to what I experienced with my Golf, especially the warm-engine timing issues. In my case, replacing just the crankshaft sensor was sufficient, the cam sensor tested fine. However, since both sensors work together for proper engine synchronization, having the shop test both components during diagnosis is worthwhile. The timing chain system relies on accurate readings from both sensors for optimal performance. In my repair, they first verified the timing chain was in good condition before proceeding with the crank sensor replacement. This was important since a stretched timing chain can cause similar symptoms. The diagnostic process revealed the crank sensor was providing inconsistent signals, disrupting the engine timing calculations. If your mileage is similar to when my issue occurred (around 55000-60000km), replacing just the faulty sensor should resolve the problems. The repair restored normal performance and fuel economy almost immediately. For reference, sensor parts typically cost 80-120€, with labor adding another 1-2 hours depending on sensor accessibility. Much more cost effective than timing chain work if thats not needed.
wolfgangfischer55
Thanks for those additional details. The symptoms on your Caddy are indeed nearly identical to what I experienced with my Golf, especially the warm-engine timing issues. In my case, replacing just the crankshaft sensor was sufficient, the cam sensor tested fine. However, since both sensors work together for proper engine synchronization, having the shop test both components during diagnosis is worthwhile. The timing chain system relies on accurate readings from both sensors for optimal performance. In my repair, they first verified the timing chain was in good condition before proceeding with the crank sensor replacement. This was important since a stretched timing chain can cause similar symptoms. The diagnostic process revealed the crank sensor was providing inconsistent signals, disrupting the engine timing calculations. If your mileage is similar to when my issue occurred (around 55000-60000km), replacing just the faulty sensor should resolve the problems. The repair restored normal performance and fuel economy almost immediately. For reference, sensor parts typically cost 80-120€, with labor adding another 1-2 hours depending on sensor accessibility. Much more cost effective than timing chain work if thats not needed.
wolfgangfischer55
Thanks for those additional details. The symptoms on your Caddy are indeed nearly identical to what I experienced with my Golf, especially the warm-engine timing issues. In my case, replacing just the crankshaft sensor was sufficient, the cam sensor tested fine. However, since both sensors work together for proper engine synchronization, having the shop test both components during diagnosis is worthwhile. The timing chain system relies on accurate readings from both sensors for optimal performance. In my repair, they first verified the timing chain was in good condition before proceeding with the crank sensor replacement. This was important since a stretched timing chain can cause similar symptoms. The diagnostic process revealed the crank sensor was providing inconsistent signals, disrupting the engine timing calculations. If your mileage is similar to when my issue occurred (around 55000-60000km), replacing just the faulty sensor should resolve the problems. The repair restored normal performance and fuel economy almost immediately. For reference, sensor parts typically cost 80-120€, with labor adding another 1-2 hours depending on sensor accessibility. Much more cost effective than timing chain work if thats not needed.
wolfgangfischer55
Thanks for those additional details. The symptoms on your Caddy are indeed nearly identical to what I experienced with my Golf, especially the warm-engine timing issues. In my case, replacing just the crankshaft sensor was sufficient, the cam sensor tested fine. However, since both sensors work together for proper engine synchronization, having the shop test both components during diagnosis is worthwhile. The timing chain system relies on accurate readings from both sensors for optimal performance. In my repair, they first verified the timing chain was in good condition before proceeding with the crank sensor replacement. This was important since a stretched timing chain can cause similar symptoms. The diagnostic process revealed the crank sensor was providing inconsistent signals, disrupting the engine timing calculations. If your mileage is similar to when my issue occurred (around 55000-60000km), replacing just the faulty sensor should resolve the problems. The repair restored normal performance and fuel economy almost immediately. For reference, sensor parts typically cost 80-120€, with labor adding another 1-2 hours depending on sensor accessibility. Much more cost effective than timing chain work if thats not needed.
norbertschwarz31 (Author)
Based on all this helpful input, I think I'll go ahead and have both sensors tested, especially since the symptoms match your experience so closely. The timing seems right too, these issues showing up around 57000km matches the common failure point you mentioned. The faulty crankshaft sensor scenario makes sense given my engine light and the reference value errors in the scan. Good to know the repair cost should be reasonable if it turns out to be just the sensor. I appreciate knowing a timing chain inspection should be part of the diagnostic process, even though hopefully that wont be needed in my case. Will book it in next week and make sure they check both sensors, verify the timing chain condition, and confirm proper engine synchronization after any repairs. The total estimated cost of 340€ you mentioned gives me a good baseline for what to expect. Really helpful to have this real-world repair experience to reference before heading to the shop.
norbertschwarz31 (Author)
Based on all this helpful input, I think I'll go ahead and have both sensors tested, especially since the symptoms match your experience so closely. The timing seems right too, these issues showing up around 57000km matches the common failure point you mentioned. The faulty crankshaft sensor scenario makes sense given my engine light and the reference value errors in the scan. Good to know the repair cost should be reasonable if it turns out to be just the sensor. I appreciate knowing a timing chain inspection should be part of the diagnostic process, even though hopefully that wont be needed in my case. Will book it in next week and make sure they check both sensors, verify the timing chain condition, and confirm proper engine synchronization after any repairs. The total estimated cost of 340€ you mentioned gives me a good baseline for what to expect. Really helpful to have this real-world repair experience to reference before heading to the shop.
norbertschwarz31 (Author)
Based on all this helpful input, I think I'll go ahead and have both sensors tested, especially since the symptoms match your experience so closely. The timing seems right too, these issues showing up around 57000km matches the common failure point you mentioned. The faulty crankshaft sensor scenario makes sense given my engine light and the reference value errors in the scan. Good to know the repair cost should be reasonable if it turns out to be just the sensor. I appreciate knowing a timing chain inspection should be part of the diagnostic process, even though hopefully that wont be needed in my case. Will book it in next week and make sure they check both sensors, verify the timing chain condition, and confirm proper engine synchronization after any repairs. The total estimated cost of 340€ you mentioned gives me a good baseline for what to expect. Really helpful to have this real-world repair experience to reference before heading to the shop.
norbertschwarz31 (Author)
Based on all this helpful input, I think I'll go ahead and have both sensors tested, especially since the symptoms match your experience so closely. The timing seems right too, these issues showing up around 57000km matches the common failure point you mentioned. The faulty crankshaft sensor scenario makes sense given my engine light and the reference value errors in the scan. Good to know the repair cost should be reasonable if it turns out to be just the sensor. I appreciate knowing a timing chain inspection should be part of the diagnostic process, even though hopefully that wont be needed in my case. Will book it in next week and make sure they check both sensors, verify the timing chain condition, and confirm proper engine synchronization after any repairs. The total estimated cost of 340€ you mentioned gives me a good baseline for what to expect. Really helpful to have this real-world repair experience to reference before heading to the shop.
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wolfgangfischer55
Having worked on VWs for a few years as a hobby mechanic, I had a very similar issue with my VW Golf 2014 1.4 TSI. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced, the engine light came on, poor performance, and notably higher fuel consumption. The main problem was the crankshaft position sensor failing to properly sync with the cam sensor, causing engine synchronization issues. After getting it diagnosed, the workshop confirmed the crank sensor was defective and needed replacement. The repair process was straightforward: Diagnostic scan to confirm sensor fault, Removal of old crankshaft sensor, Installation of new sensor, System reset and timing verification, Test drive to ensure proper operation Total cost was 340€ including parts and labor. After the repair, fuel consumption returned to normal and performance was restored. Before suggesting specific solutions, could you share: Complete engine code, Current mileage, Any other warning lights besides check engine, Whether the issues happen more during cold starts or when engine is warm, If you notice any unusual vibrations or sounds This information would help determine if your case is similar to what I encountered with my Golf.