VW Crafter Cam Sensor Causing Power Loss & High Fuel Use

Last month I had nearly identical symptoms with my 2011 VW Transporter TDI. The engine light kept triggering and the engine would occasionally lose power, especially during acceleration. The timing belt seemed fine, but the real issue was a failing crank sensor causing incorrect engine synchronization readings. The crank sensor is crucial for proper engine timing since it monitors the crankshaft position relative to the camshaft. When it starts failing, the engine control unit receives incorrect timing data, leading to poor performance and increased fuel consumption. In my case, the problem was indeed serious as continued driving could have caused engine damage due to improper timing. The repair involved replacing both the crank sensor and checking the timing chain assembly. The diagnostic system showed similar error codes about crankshaft-camshaft reference values being outside specifications. This is a known issue on these VW diesel engines. Would strongly recommend getting it fixed soon, as running the engine with incorrect timing can lead to more expensive repairs. The repair itself is straightforward for an experienced mechanic with the right diagnostic equipment.

Thanks for sharing your experience. Your symptoms sound exactly like what I went through with my Crafter. Did you remember roughly how much the full repair ended up costing? My mechanic is quoting quite high and Im trying to figure out if its reasonable. Also, has the misfire issue stayed fixed or have you had any other engine light warnings since the repair? I actually took mine in yesterday and they also mentioned checking the timing belt while theyre in there. Makes sense since the parts are all connected, but adds to the cost of course.

Great to hear you took it in. Since fixing the crankshaft sensor on my Transporter, the engine has been running perfectly with no misfire issues or engine light warnings. The crankshaft to camshaft reference value is now within spec, which resolved all the power and fuel consumption problems. The total repair came to 340€ for the sensor replacement, and it was worth every cent. Your mechanic is right about checking the timing belt, its good preventive maintenance since accessing that area requires similar labor. While the initial cost might seem high, its much cheaper than dealing with potential engine damage from running with incorrect timing. If your quote is significantly higher, it might include the timing belt replacement or additional diagnostic work. My repair was straightforward since we caught the failing crankshaft sensor before it caused any related issues.

Thanks everyone, wanted to update on what happened. Took it to the shop last week and turns out you were spot on. The crank sensor was indeed the culprit, causing the timing issues. Bill came to 420€ total, bit more than yours since they found the timing chain also needed adjustment while they were in there. Quick repair in the end, took them about 3 hours. No more engine light or misfire problems since then. Engine runs smoother than before and fuel consumption is back to normal. Glad I caught it before any serious damage occurred. Really appreciate the advice here, saved me from getting overcharged at my usual mechanic who wanted nearly double for the same job.