VW Polo Air Temp Sensor Issues Causing Engine Problems

I had a very similar issue with my 2015 VW Golf diesel. The car diagnostics pointed to a faulty IAT sensor, showing exactly the same symptoms you described. My experience level with car repairs is moderate, I can handle basic maintenance but leave complex issues to professionals. The engine issues started similarly, with rough running and reduced power. The car sensor readings were inconsistent, which triggered the check engine light. After taking it to the workshop, they confirmed the air sensor was defective. The total repair cost was 155€, which included the new IAT sensor and labor. The fix resolved all symptoms and the engine has been running smoothly since then. To provide more specific advice about your situation, could you share: Current mileage on your Polo, When you first noticed these symptoms, Any recent maintenance work performed, Whether the issues occur more during cold or hot weather, Specific error codes from your diagnostic tool This information would help determine if your case matches what I experienced and whether there might be additional factors to consider. The workshop mentioned these sensors typically last 5-7 years, so the timing of your issue sounds about right for a 2017 model.

Last service was completed at 60000km and symptoms started appearing shortly after. The repair shop initially suspected a simple air sensor issue, but after thorough car diagnostics, they found the intake air system had additional wear requiring attention. Temperature reading fluctuations were happening mostly during cold starts, making the engine management system receive incorrect data. The total repair ended up costing 280€, as they needed to clean the entire intake system along with replacing the sensor. This solved all issues, no more rough running or check engine lights. The repair shop recommended scheduling the next service a bit earlier than usual to monitor the intake system condition.

Thanks for sharing those details about your repair experience. Your situation matches what I went through with my Golf almost exactly, the cold start temperature reading issues were a clear sign. After my initial IAT sensor replacement, I also noticed the intake system needed attention during the following service. The workshop explained how a contaminated intake can affect sensor readings and overall engine performance. They did a thorough intake cleaning which cost an extra 130€, but it was worth preventing future engine issues. The car diagnostics showed much more stable readings after both the sensor replacement and intake cleaning. For long-term prevention, I now use a higher grade fuel and changed my driving habits to allow proper engine warm-up during cold weather. Your proactive approach with earlier service intervals makes sense. Since fixing these issues, my Golf has maintained consistent performance with no check engine light reappearing. The engine runs notably smoother, especially during cold starts. Have you noticed any improvements in fuel consumption since the repair was completed?

The fuel economy has definitely improved since the repair, getting about 15% better mileage now. The engine temperature sensor and cleaned intake system are working together perfectly, giving accurate temperature readings to the ECU. The car feels much more responsive, especially during morning starts. The investment in the complete intake system service rather than just replacing the IAT sensor was definitely worth it. While the 280€ total cost was higher than expected, preventing future engine issues makes it good value. The car diagnostics now show all parameters within normal ranges. I will stick with the suggested earlier service intervals and continue monitoring how the intake system performs. So far, the car runs like new, no check engine lights, no power loss, and no rough running. Really glad I had this properly diagnosed and fixed rather than trying cheaper temporary solutions.