VW Suran Stalling: Bad Camshaft Sensor Alert

Had the exact same symptoms in my 2011 VW Fox with the 1.6L engine. The rough starts and engine stalling were caused by a defective encoder wheel on the camshaft sensor, which was disrupting proper ignition timing and engine control functions. The camshaft sensor works with the crankshaft sensor to maintain precise engine timing. When either fails, the engine management system gets confused, leading to those stalling issues and rough running conditions you described. Initially thought it was just a sensor problem, but the mechanic found the actual encoder wheel teeth were worn down. Required removing the valve cover to replace both the wheel and camshaft sensor as a complete unit. Not a quick fix but definitely solved the persistent check engine light and running issues. This is a known wear point in these engines and should be addressed promptly as it can affect engine performance and fuel economy. The repair involves specialized diagnostic equipment to verify proper sensor operation after replacement.

Thanks for sharing your experience. I had the same camshaft sensor failure in my VW Suran Spacefox about 8 months ago. The engine misfire symptoms and stalling were identical to what you described. The mechanic also found encoder wheel damage during diagnosis. The fix worked perfectly and my engine control system has been running smoothly since then. No check engine lights or rough running issues have returned. Would you mind sharing what the repair ended up costing you? And have you experienced any other sensor-related problems since getting it fixed?

After getting the encoder wheel and camshaft sensor replaced, my repair bill came to 695€ total. This included sensor testing and the complete diagnostic procedure to ensure proper ignition timing after installation. Since fixing the defective encoder wheel on the camshafts, the engine has been running perfectly. No more engine misfire issues or check engine lights in the past year. The investment was worth it, as proper engine control and timing are crucial for long-term reliability. The original sensor testing revealed the worn encoder wheel was causing inconsistent signals, leading to those frustrating stalling problems. Having this fixed by a qualified technician with the right diagnostic equipment was key to resolving the issue completely. No other sensor-related problems have occurred since the repair. The crankshaft sensor continues working as it should, and the engine maintains steady idle and performance just like when it was new.

I finally took my VW to a certified mechanic last week after dealing with those frustrating camshaft sensor issues. The diagnostic testing confirmed what we discussed, a worn encoder wheel was causing the engine control problems. Total repair cost came to 780€, which included replacing both the camshaft position sensor and encoder wheel. The mechanic showed me the old parts, and the wheel teeth were definitely worn down badly. The engine stalling and rough running issues completely disappeared after the fix. Been driving for a week now without any check engine light warnings or performance problems. The engine idles smoothly and starts perfectly every time. Really glad I got it properly diagnosed and fixed rather than continuing to guess at the problem.