VW Golf Hybrid Temperature Sensor Causes Power Loss

Having dealt with a similar issue on my 2020 VW Passat Hybrid, I can share some relevant experience as a hobby mechanic who does basic maintenance. The symptoms you describe match what I experienced, especially the power loss and fuel consumption increase. In my case, it turned out to be more than just the temperature sensor. The workshop discovered a small leak in the exhaust system that was causing incorrect readings from the exhaust sensor. The temperature fluctuations triggered the engine management system to activate limp mode as a protective measure. The repair involved: Full diagnostic scan, Exhaust component inspection, Temperature sensor replacement, Repair of the exhaust leak, System recalibration Total repair cost was 265€ and took about 4 hours to complete. To better assist you, could you share: Current mileage on your Golf, When the check engine light first appeared, Any unusual sounds from the exhaust, Whether the symptoms occur more during cold starts These details would help determine if your issue matches what I experienced. The temperature sensor issues can sometimes indicate larger exhaust system problems that should be addressed promptly to prevent more expensive repairs later.

Thanks for sharing your experience. My Golf just had its annual service last month at 31089km. I noticed the check engine light started appearing about a week after the service, so timing seems suspicious. No unusual sounds from the exhaust yet, but the power loss is most noticeable during cold starts. The emission control system seems particularly sensitive on these hybrids, so I will have the exhaust sensor checked first. The temperature fluctuation patterns you described match my symptoms exactly, especially regarding the inconsistent limp mode activation. Good point about checking for potential exhaust leaks too. Will have the whole system inspected rather than just replacing the sensor blindly. Would you say its safe to drive short distances while waiting for the repair appointment?

Thanks for those extra details. Given our similar hybrid models, I can offer some relevant insight. Like yours, my issues appeared suddenly, but I did continue driving for about a week before getting it fixed. While short trips should be manageable, the engine management system running in limp mode means youre operating with reduced power and efficiency. A few practical points based on my experience: Keep trips under 20km if possible, Avoid high-speed driving or heavy acceleration, Monitor fuel consumption closely, Watch for any new warning lights The timing after your service is interesting. My temperature sensor actually failed shortly after a service too. The workshop explained that sometimes disturbing components during routine maintenance can expose underlying weakness in sensors or connections. The heat sensor readings being off forced my car into protection mode, similar to yours. Getting both the exhaust sensor checked and a full system inspection definitely makes sense. The diagnostic scan showed my temperature sensor was sending erratic signals, which matched the inconsistent limp mode behavior you described. Considering the preventive angle helped save me from more expensive repairs later. Having experienced this, I would suggest getting it checked within the next week or so.

I really appreciate the detailed advice. Based on your similar experience and my symptoms, I feel more confident about how to proceed. Since the cold start issues seem comparable to what you dealt with, I will follow your suggestion about limiting trips and avoiding heavy acceleration until I can get it properly diagnosed. Just booked an appointment for next week. Given how the exhaust system and heat sensor issues played out with your vehicle, I will request they do a full inspection rather than just focusing on the temperature sensor. The emission control system complexity in these hybrids definitely warrants a thorough check. Makes sense about the service timing potentially exposing weak components. Will mention this to the technician since my problems also started right after maintenance. The exhaust component inspection should reveal if theres any connection. For now, I will stick to short local trips and keep monitoring for any changes in performance or new warning lights. Thanks for helping me understand what to expect with the repair process and timeline.