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julianeumann13

VW Scirocco Fuel Sensor Causing Idle Stalls

My VW Scirocco 2008 keeps stalling at idle and the check engine light is on. The fault memory shows an error code related to the fuel level sensor. The car runs fine at higher RPMs but becomes unstable when idling. Looking for tips from anyone who had similar fuel sensor issues with their Scirocco, what was the actual problem and how did your mechanic fix it? Also interested in knowing if replacing the level sensor solved the stalling problem or if other components were involved. Thanks for any insights on troubleshooting this.

4 comment(s)

maxhahn8

Having dealt with a similar issue on my VW Golf GTI 2010, I can share my experience fixing fuel sensor problems. Since I have some experience working on VAG engines, I initially thought it was a major fuel system issue. The stalling symptoms and check engine light matched exactly what you describe. The fuel gauge readings were also inconsistent, which is typical for a level sensor fault. The mechanic first checked the fuse box and found a blown fuse connected to the fuel pump circuit. The total repair was 52€, which covered diagnostic time and fuse replacement. After fixing this, both the stalling and sensor errors were resolved. The fuel level sensor started working correctly again once it received proper power. However, to give more specific advice for your case, could you share: Does your fuel gauge show incorrect readings? Have you noticed any other electrical issues? What is the exact error code from the diagnostic scan? These details would help determine if your Scirocco has the same underlying issue. While a faulty fuse was the culprit in my case, fuel sensor problems can sometimes indicate more complex fuel pump or wiring issues that need attention.

julianeumann13 (Author)

Thanks for sharing your Golf GTI experience. I last had my car serviced at 145355km and the stalling issue started shortly after. The fuel gauge readings are indeed erratic, sometimes showing full when I know the tank is nearly empty. The scan shows error code P0462 which points to the fuel level sensor circuit. Haven't noticed other electrical problems beyond the fuel gauge behaving oddly. These symptoms line up with what you described. Interesting that a simple fuse solved your stalling problems. I checked the fuse box but all fuses appear intact. Makes me think my faulty sensor might be causing incorrect signals to the car dashboard which then affects the idle control. Did your mechanic need to access the fuel tank to check any wiring connections before discovering the blown fuse?

maxhahn8

Thanks for those additional details about your Scirocco. Looking at your error code and symptoms, this appears more complex than my initial fuel sensor issue. Since your fuses are intact, the problem likely lies with the fuel tank sensor assembly itself or its wiring. When my GTI had similar symptoms, the mechanic did need to drop the fuel tank to inspect the wiring harness, even though it ended up being just a fuse in my case. The erratic fuel gauge behavior combined with stalling strongly suggests a failing fuel level sensor that is interfering with the fuel system readings. The ECU might be getting incorrect data about fuel delivery, causing the idle control issues. A few things to consider: The fuel sensor may need full replacement rather than repair, Poor electrical connections at the sensor can cause similar symptoms, The fuel pump could be affected if its getting incorrect signals The repair cost will likely be higher than my simple fuse fix, typically 250€-400€ including labor to access and replace the sensor assembly. Given these symptoms and the P0462 code, I recommend having a professional check the entire fuel tank sensor circuit. This will prevent replacing parts unnecessarily.

julianeumann13 (Author)

Thanks for the detailed explanation about accessing the fuel tank and sensor assembly. The P0462 code definitely suggests its more involved than a blown fuse. I will have my regular mechanic inspect the car electronics and fuel sensor connections first. Good to know they might need to drop the fuel tank to properly diagnose the issue. The repair cost estimate helps me budget for this, I was worried it might be much more expensive if the fuel pump needed replacement. The stalling has gotten more frequent lately so I will book it in next week. Your experience helps confirm that erratic fuel gauge readings combined with idle problems often point to sensor or wiring issues rather than mechanical fuel system problems. Will update once I know what exactly was causing the faulty fuel level sensor readings and stalling. Really appreciate you taking time to explain the diagnostic steps and likely repair needs based on your GTI experience.

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