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gert_jones1

VW Jetta Hybrid Power Loss Due to Faulty Temp Sensor

Looking for advice after my check engine light triggered and power dropped significantly. Car makes whistling and hissing sounds during acceleration. Error code points to a charge air temperature sensor issue. Anyone dealt with similar symptoms? Want to avoid another bad mechanic experience. Running a 2015 VW Jetta Hybrid with 50626km. Has anyone encountered temperature sensor problems on these engines and knows a reliable fix?

4 comment(s)

barbaraghost1

Having experienced similar symptoms with my 2018 VW Passat Hybrid, this sounds like a common charge sensor and air intake issue. The whistling noise combined with power loss typically indicates a problem with the temperature sensor connection or the sensor itself. Last time at the garage, the diagnostic revealed loose wiring connections at the charge air temperature sensor. The temperature fluctuation readings were causing the engine management system to reduce power output as a protective measure. The air sensor mount had developed vibration damage, which caused intermittent connection issues. The fix required cleaning the connector pins and securing the wiring harness properly. While not a severe mechanical problem, leaving it unaddressed can lead to poor fuel economy and potential engine strain. The repair itself is straightforward when properly diagnosed. These temperature sensor issues are relatively common in VW hybrids from this generation. Make sure the shop checks both the sensor and its connections, as sometimes mechanics replace the sensor unnecessarily when the wiring is the actual culprit. If the error code specifically points to the charge air temperature sensor, start with having the connections inspected before replacing any parts.

gert_jones1 (Author)

Thanks for the detailed insight on the temperature sensor issue. I experienced the exact same symptoms with my 2015 Jetta last winter. The air temperature readings were all over the place and the engine kept losing power. My mechanic first checked the wiring harness but found the charge air temperature sensor itself was faulty. Since the engine sensor replacement, everything has been running smoothly with no power loss or strange noises. Would you mind sharing what the repair cost in your case? Also curious if youve had any other temperature gauge related problems since the fix? My car has been trouble-free for about 8 months now, but its good to know what to watch out for.

barbaraghost1

Since having my VW Passat checked at the mechanic, they fixed the charge air temperature sensor problem completely. The issue turned out to be simpler than expected, just a faulty cable connection to the automotive sensor that needed repair. The total cost came to 95€ for fixing the loose wiring connection. This was much more reasonable than potentially replacing the entire airflow sensor unit unnecessarily. The mechanic cleaned and properly secured the connection points, which resolved both the error code and performance issues. For the past year, all temperature readings have stayed consistent and the engine performance has been perfect. No more power drops or unusual sounds during acceleration. The temperature gauge now shows stable readings, proving it was indeed just the wiring connection causing those erratic air temperature measurements. Good to hear your Jetta has been running well after the sensor replacement. While these connector issues are fairly common in VW hybrids, once properly fixed, they tend to stay resolved. Regular checks of the sensor connections during routine maintenance can help prevent similar issues from developing again.

gert_jones1 (Author)

Thanks for all the feedback. Finally went to get it checked yesterday at a local shop. The issue was exactly as described, a faulty charge air temperature sensor. The mechanic showed me how the airflow sensor readings were jumping erratically on the diagnostic tool. Total repair came to 280€ including labor. Higher than just a wiring fix, but worth it since they had to replace the entire temperature sensor unit. The whistling noise disappeared immediately after the repair and the engine power returned to normal. Started noticing improved fuel economy right away too. The mechanic explained that when temperature fluctuation readings are off, the engine runs rich to protect itself. Really glad I caught this early before it could cause more serious problems. The shop also performed a full diagnostic scan to ensure no other sensor issues were present. Everything else checked out fine, including all other engine temperature readings. Will definitely keep an eye on the charge sensor connections during future services to avoid similar problems.

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