VW Lupo Diesel Cold Start Misery: Injector Fix Needed

Had a similar fuel delivery issue with my 2005 VW Polo TDI. The symptoms matched exactly, hard starting in cold conditions and rough idle until the engine warmed up. The fuel system diagnosis revealed carbon buildup in the injectors affecting proper atomization during cold starts. The repair involved a complete injector cleaning service and replacement of two faulty injectors that were beyond salvaging. The fuel rail needed to be removed to access everything properly. While the components were out, the mechanic also cleaned the injector seats and verified the return line flow. This was definitely a serious issue that required immediate attention, as poor fuel delivery can eventually damage other engine components. After the repair, cold starts became instant and the rough idle completely disappeared. The improvement in overall engine performance was noticeable. If your symptoms align with what I experienced, having the injectors tested and serviced would be a logical first step. Proper diagnosis of the fuel system is crucial since similar symptoms can stem from different root causes in diesel engines.

Thanks for sharing your Polo experience, sounds very similar to my injector test results. The cold start problems were definitely caused by those clogged injectors. My engine misfire issues cleared up completely after the fix. Just wondering, do you remember roughly what you paid for the whole repair job? Also, has everything stayed running smoothly since then, or have you noticed any other fuel system problems cropping up?

Since having the faulty cold start injector replaced last month, my Polo has been starting perfectly. The repair cost came to 515€ total, which included removing the fuel rail and replacing the defective injection valve. The mechanic also performed a thorough injector cleaning service while the system was apart. The investment was worth it, no more hard starting issues even on the coldest mornings. The engine fires up immediately now and idles smoothly from the start. Been driving it daily for several weeks without any signs of fuel delivery problems returning. Getting the work done promptly was key to preventing additional engine damage. Cold start problems like these can lead to serious engine misfire issues if left unchecked. Based on how well my car is running now, I would definitely recommend getting suspect injectors tested and replaced when needed.

Got my Lupo back from the shop yesterday after dealing with those frustrating cold start problems. The mechanic confirmed it was indeed clogged injectors causing the fuel delivery issues. Total bill came to 480€ for cleaning the entire fuel system and replacing one bad injector. The difference is remarkable, no more multiple attempts to start on cold mornings. The engine fires up instantly now and settles into a smooth idle right away. Such a relief after dealing with those engine misfire issues for weeks. Took it on a good test drive this morning and the improved performance is obvious. The fuel injection system is working exactly as it should. Definitely worth getting it sorted properly rather than letting it drag on and risk more serious engine problems. Really glad I went ahead with the full repair job. Should have done it sooner instead of putting up with those hard starting headaches. The shop did great work and actually charged less than I expected for the labor involved.