VW Tiguan IAT Sensor Failure Causing Power Loss

Had a similar issue on my VW Golf TDI 2013. The intake air temperature sensor failure caused power loss and rough idle, especially during cold starts. The diagnostic tool indicated IAT sensor malfunction, matching your symptoms. The temperature sensor replacement was relatively straightforward. The sensor is located on the intake manifold, and while accessing it requires removing some components, a competent mechanic can complete the job in about 2 hours. The car diagnostics showed immediate improvement after replacement. The main risk of driving with a faulty air sensor is potential engine damage due to incorrect fuel mixture. The engine control unit relies on accurate temperature readings to optimize fuel delivery. My vehicle had started consuming more fuel before the fix. Not a major repair compared to other potential diesel engine issues, but definitely not something to ignore. The check engine light cleared after the new sensor was installed and proper calibration was done. Performance returned to normal, and fuel economy improved noticeably. Make sure your mechanic uses quality OEM parts for the temperature sensor replacement. Some aftermarket sensors can cause recurring issues.

Thanks for sharing your experience. My Tiguan had almost the exact same symptoms with the faulty IAT sensor. The air temperature readings were way off, causing similar power and fuel economy issues. Can you remember roughly how much the repair cost you in total? Also curious if youve had any other air sensor related problems since the fix? Its been about 8 months since I had mine replaced and everything seems good so far, but always helpful to know what to watch out for.

Just had a check of my service records, the IAT sensor repair came to 155€ total at my mechanic, including parts and labor. Since getting the faulty intake air temperature sensor fixed, the car has run perfectly with no similar issues. The car diagnostics have stayed clear of any temperature reading problems. The repair proved to be a solid fix, no more power loss or fuel consumption issues. A properly functioning air sensor really makes a difference in engine performance. Your 8 months of trouble-free running matches my experience. These sensors typically last quite long once properly replaced with quality parts. Its good practice to keep monitoring the intake air readings through regular diagnostics, but failures are pretty rare once fixed correctly. The temperature sensor seems to be a one-and-done repair in most cases.

Let me share my repair experience. After getting the helpful feedback here, I took my Tiguan to a mechanic specializing in VW diesels. The diagnostic tool confirmed the faulty IAT sensor, just as suspected. Total cost came to 180€ for parts and labor, which seemed reasonable given the specialized nature of the repair. The mechanic was thorough, showing me the old air sensor and explaining how its faulty temperature readings were affecting engine performance. The repair took about 2 hours, and the car diagnostics immediately showed proper readings after installation. Now, 3 months later, the engine runs perfectly, no more power loss or rough idle. Fuel economy has improved significantly, and the check engine light has stayed off. Really glad I got it fixed promptly rather than risking further engine issues.