VW Taos Check Engine + Whistling Points to Temp Sensor

I had similar symptoms on my 2020 VW Tiguan (gas engine). The whistling sound combined with power loss typically points to a charge sensor connection issue. The temperature fluctuation warning came from a faulty wire connection at the charge air temperature sensor. The repair involved testing the sensor circuit, which revealed corroded terminals at the connector. The air sensor itself was functioning correctly, but the connection had deteriorated. The fix required cleaning the terminals and replacing the wiring harness section connected to the charge air temperature sensor. This ended up being a moderate repair, not as severe as initially feared. The engine temperature gauge readings returned to normal immediately after fixing the connection. Most importantly, the repair prevented potential long-term damage to the engine management system. Key indicators that matched your situation: Whistling noise during acceleration, Power reduction, Engine sensor malfunction code, Temperature reading inconsistencies The service took about 3 hours, and the check engine light cleared after the repair. Would recommend having this checked soon, as faulty readings from the air temperature sensor can affect engine performance and fuel efficiency.

Thanks for sharing your Tiguan experience. Your symptoms do match mine exactly, especially that whistling during acceleration. I took my Taos in yesterday and as you described, they found issues with the charge air temperature sensor connections. They also noticed the air intake housing had a minor crack that was causing some of the whistling. Do you remember roughly what you paid for the repair? Also wondering if youve had any related issues pop up since getting it fixed?

After getting the charge air temperature sensor connection repaired on my Tiguan, I can confirm it cost 95€ to fix the faulty cable and plug connection. The repair has been completely solid, no temperature fluctuation warnings or sensor errors have returned since. The air intake and charge sensor systems have worked flawlessly for the past few months. No more whistling sounds or power issues. The engine management system is reading all temperatures correctly now that the connection is properly restored. That minor crack you mentioned in your air intake housing is something different than what I dealt with, but addressing both issues together was smart. A compromised air intake can definitely cause those whistling noises youre describing. Good to hear you got it sorted at the shop. These sensor connection problems are fairly straightforward fixes when caught early, before they can cause problems with other engine components.

I appreciate all the helpful replies. After visiting my mechanic yesterday, they found and fixed both issues. The charge air temperature sensor connections needed cleaning and partial rewiring, plus they patched that crack in the air intake housing that was causing the whistle. Total bill came to 180€, more than expected but worth it to have everything working properly again. The automotive sensor replacement work took about 2 hours. They showed me the corroded connection points, which explained the temperature fluctuation readings I was getting. Since the repair, the engine is running smoother with full power restored and no more concerning noises during acceleration. They did a great test drive after and confirmed all the engine sensor readings were back to normal. Really relieved it wasnt a bigger issue. Will definitely keep an eye on those connections during future maintenance to catch any early signs of corrosion.